The behavioural response of migrating humpback whales to a full seismic airgun array.

ABSTRACT: Despite concerns on the effects of noise from seismic survey airguns on marine organisms, there remains uncertainty as to the biological significance of any response. This study quantifies and interprets the response of migrating humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) to a 3130 in³ (51.3l) commercial airgun array. We compare the behavioural responses to active trials (array operational; n = 34 whale groups), with responses to control trials (source vessel towing the array while silent; n = 33) and baseline studies of normal behaviour in the absence of the vessel (n = 85). No abnormal behaviours were recorded during the trials. However, in response to the active seismic array and the controls, the whales displayed c

SUBMITTER: Dunlop RA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5745409 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature