Fish bioacoustics: characterization of fish sounds and effect of noise on fish

Fish produce sounds underwater to communicate with each other. Underwater microphones (called hydrophones) can be deployed in the ocean to record these sounds and help scientists study where the fish are without disturbing them. Unfortunately, few studies have been done on fish sounds and a lot of sounds fish produce have not been identified yet. The proposed research project aims at describing what sounds various species of fish produce by deploying hydrophones and video cameras in the ocean. This study will also investigate if the noise in the ocean from vessels can change the vocal behavior of fish. This project will be carried out in partnership with the Canadian consulting company JASCO Applied Sciences. Outcomes for this research will be used by JASCO to monitor fish in their environmental studies and will allow them to strengthen their position as international leaders in this industry.

Faculty Supervisor:

Francis Juanes

Student:

Partner:

JASCO Applied Sciences (Canada) Ltd (Victoria)

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Environmental Science and Technology; Ocean Tech; Aquaculture and Fishing

University:

University of Victoria

Program: