Introduction
A groundbreaking study conducted by researchers from the Federal University of Juiz de Fora (UFJF) in Minas Gerais, Brazil, is investigating the interference of anthropogenic noise on dolphin communication in Fernando de Noronha. The team, led by Professor Raul Ribeiro, installed a hydrophone at the Porto de Santo Antônio to analyze the sounds emitted by dolphins and compare their communication in areas with and without human presence.
Methods and Objectives
The primary objective of the research is to understand how human-generated noise affects dolphin communication. To achieve this, the researchers will compare the communication of dolphins at the Porto de Santo Antônio, where there is significant human activity, with the communication in the Baía dos Golfinhos, a protected area without human presence.
The hydrophone installed at the Porto de Santo Antônio will record sounds for a month and a half, while in the Baía dos Golfinhos, recordings will be made for four months. The equipment has long-lasting batteries and will collect information 24 hours a day.
Importance of the Study
According to Raul Ribeiro, human activity generates invisible pollution, known as anthropogenic noise, which interferes with dolphin communication. In the medium and long term, this noise requires dolphins to adapt to perform daily activities, such as communicating, finding food, and escaping predators, which can have a biological cost for these animals.
The study has the support of the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio) and the Atlantis operator. The research results will contribute to marine conservation in Fernando de Noronha.
Conclusion
The impact of anthropogenic noise on dolphin communication is an important topic that needs to be investigated. The research conducted by UFJF in Fernando de Noronha is a significant step towards understanding how human activities affect marine life and how we can work to minimize these impacts.
Source / Reference: G1 Natureza