Ana Širović abstract

Sound allows us to investigate the ocean on a much finer time scales than other methods of study as it is feasible to collect continuous underwater recordings over months or years at a time. At the same time, sound is critical for successful functioning of many marine animals. It helps them find food and mates, fend off threats, and sense their environment. I will present case studies that highlight how we have been gaining valuable ecological and biological knowledge about baleen whale and fish species through long-term passive acoustic monitoring effort. In addition, I will reflect on the concerns that increases in ocean sound levels raise regarding functioning of marine life and ecosystems.