Acoustic Disturbance Risk Estimates and Mitigation Strategies: An Animal-Centric Approach

Sounds of anthropogenic origins are becoming increasingly prevalent in aquatic soundscapes. Acoustic disturbance of individuals, populations, and species is, therefore, increasingly a threat to their success and survival. To better understand the level of risk and implications of elevated sound exposure, the application of a more animal-centric approach is described. Indeed, it is believed that the design of mitigation measures could also follow this approach to diminish the effects. The key to taking the species-centered approach is to first consider the sound frequencies that are most relevant to their acoustics use, including those used for conspecific communication, auto-communication such as echo- or electro-location, and acoustic cues interpreted to understand their surroundings. Then, determine how the anthropogenic sound input masks these ecologically important signals, effectively reducing the individuals’ active space. Metrics of exposure and the application of hearing thresholds and audiogram data are also explored. Further, how these can be used to estimate the potential for behavioral modifications, physiological stress, or injury is considered. A change in the interpretation of human-made sound sources in the environment is suggested, whereby anthropogenic acoustic additions are considered more than simply a polluter to an individual’s niche but as a competitor for acoustic space, habitat, and prey.