The Effects of Seismic Surveys on Marine Zooplankton

Abstract

Anthropogenic underwater noise, such as boat noise, pile driving, or seismic surveys, is an increasing source of ocean pollution and poses a potential threat to marine life. Seismic surveys may negatively impact marine mammals and fish. However, little is known about the effects of zooplankton. Zooplankton are essential to marine ecosystems, transferring energy from lower to higher trophic levels and playing an important part in the carbon cycle. This work investigates the impact of seismic surveys on zooplankton, combining laboratory and field work and examining different species, developmental stages, and effects. The thesis shows that seismic airguns have a limited impact on zooplankton, with variations influenced by species, exposure conditions, and study design. While certain zooplankton taxa may experience increased mortality rates and behavioral changes, others display minimal effects. Additionally, the thesis underscores the harmful impact of rapid pressure drops associated with airgun exposure on zooplankton, underscoring the variability in how different taxa respond to various stressors. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of considering broader environmental contexts and recognizing the potential impact on other organisms when assessing the effects of anthropogenic underwater noise on marine ecosystems.