A series of field experiments in which researchers exposed the commercial scallop Pecten fumatus to seismic signals, which are used worldwide to explore for gas and oil deposits, revealed that the seismic signals were associated with increased scallop mortality rates as well as alterations in the scallops' behavioral and physiological characteristics, including changes in reflex responses and hemolymph biochemistry, highlighting potential effects of anthropogenic aquatic noise on marine life.
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Article #17-00564: "Exposure to seismic air gun signals causes physiological harm and alters behavior in the scallop Pecten fumatus ," by Ryan Day et al.
MEDIA CONTACT: Jayson Semmens, University of Tasmania, Hobart, AUSTRALIA; tel: +61-409-488520; e-mail: < jayson.semmens@utas.edu.au >
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences