In the context of changing environmental conditions occurring worldwide, scientists have revealed that noise from vessels can affect the behavior of marine mammals. According to a new study published in the journal 'Nature Communications', even minimal noise from propellers can alter the activity of whales and dolphins in the water.
Researchers from the University of St Andrews in Scotland have indicated that noise from ships causes stress in some species of marine mammals, reducing their activity by 37%. This may impact the ability of animals to hunt, socialize, and reproduce.
One of the authors of the study is Professor Karen De Clippeleer. She emphasized that even a small human intervention in marine ecosystems can have serious consequences. Whales and dolphins, found in close proximity to noisy vessels, become less active and lose interest in searching for food.
