A new study led by marine ecologists at Simon Fraser University (SFU) reveals that over a thousand fish species rely on sounds for communication, mating, and survival, yet these critical acoustic behaviors are ignored in conservation policies. Published in Biological Conservation, the research highlights the urgent need to incorporate fish acoustics and noise pollution impacts into federal protection strategies to safeguard vulnerable species.
The study found that despite the vital role of sounds—such as hums, grunts, and clicks—in fish behavior, Canadian conservation assessments have largely overlooked these factors. Over the past two decades, only two marine assessments for at-risk fish species even mentioned soundscapes or noise pollution, and none addressed all three key elements: sound production, soundscapes, and noise pollution.
Senior author Kieran Cox, a fellow at SFU and co-founder of FishSounds.net, emphasized that sound is essential for behaviors like reproduction. For example, male fish use sounds to attract mates, and the quality of these sounds directly affects their reproductive success. Noise pollution from shipping, industrial activities, and other sources can disrupt these behaviors, potentially leading to population declines.
The research team analyzed 374 assessments and reports by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) and the Species at Risk Act (SARA). Shockingly, not a single SARA document acknowledged sound production or noise pollution as a threat, while only one COSEWIC assessment identified a species as sound-producing.
“Protecting communication spaces has been critical for conserving marine mammals like orcas,” said Cox. “Sound is just as important for fish, and they deserve the same level of protection.”
Kiara Kattler, who led the study, added, “Noise pollution varies in frequency, duration, and volume, each posing unique risks to marine life. These factors must be considered in conservation strategies.”
The study calls for immediate action to integrate fish acoustics into conservation policies, particularly under COSEWIC and SARA frameworks. As evidence grows about the importance of sound in deeper ocean regions, the researchers stress that protecting aquatic soundscapes is vital for the survival of countless fish species. Future research will explore the broader impacts of noise pollution on marine ecosystems.
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