Abstract

This paper examines the sources, characteristics, and impacts of anthropogenic underwater noise on fish, drawing from existing literature. Sound is crucial for fish communication, navigation, and survival, but increasing industrialization and aquaculture practices introduce disruptive noise pollution. This noise, stemming from sources like electrical motors, seismic airguns, pile driving, aeration systems, and water pumps, interferes with natural acoustic environments. Fish hearing capabilities vary, with specialists able to detect wider frequencies compared to generalists. Anthropogenic noise can cause stress, leading to suppressed immunity, growth, and reproduction, and in severe cases, mortality. Studies reveal physical damages like ruptured swim bladders and hemorrhaging due to activities such as pile driving. The paper highlights the need to understand and mitigate underwater noise in aquaculture and marine environments to protect fish populations and ensure sustainable practices. Reducing noise at its source or eliminating it can benefit fish species and potentially enhance aquaculture productivity. Further research is needed to fully assess the long-term effects of noise pollution on fish behavior and physiology.