Acoustics in marine ecology: Innovation in technology expands the use of sound in ocean science

This Theme Section provides an overview of the increasing importance of acoustics in understanding marine ecosystems, and of the scientific and management drivers behind recent development and implementation of acoustic technologies. We focus on 3 issues, which are explored in greater depth by contributions to the Theme Section: (1) passive listening systems to measure and monitor marine ecosystems; (2) active acoustic technologies to explore habitat use and predator-prey behavior; and (3) effects of anthropogenic sound on the marine environment. We call for more explicit consideration and support by international scientific organizations, given the rapid developments in technology and approaches described across the Theme Section, for these essential acoustic research and monitoring efforts, to support basic scientific understanding and adaptive conservation management. © Inter-Research 2009.

Duke Scholars

Author Douglas Nowacek Marine Science and Conservation