New Discovery in Marine Communication
Researchers from the MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre and the CE3C – Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes, both at the University of Lisbon's Faculty of Sciences, have published a study confirming that the flying gurnard (Dactylopterus volitans) communicates by emitting sounds and performing simultaneous movements. This finding adds to the understanding of ocean acoustics.
Confirming the Gurnard's Voice
Scientists had suspected this species produced sounds since the 1970s. The recent study provides definitive confirmation and detailed characterization.
It identifies two distinct types of short, repeated grunt-like sounds. These sounds differ in duration, frequency, and rhythm and are often accompanied by the opening of the gurnard's large, blue-spotted pectoral fins. The research also found that juvenile gurnards under 10 cm in length produce sounds, indicating this ability is present from an early developmental stage.
Research Methodology and Collaboration
The research team utilized action cameras to record individual fish producing sounds while exhibiting their characteristic visual behavior. Data was collected in Pasjača, Croatia, as part of a monitoring program for non-native species in Croatian waters.
The study was published in the Journal of Zoology and involved collaboration with specialists from MARE/ARNET and CE3C. Alongside them were researchers from the University of Zagreb, the Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries of Croatia, and the University of Venice.
Implications for Ecosystem Understanding
Researcher Manuel Vieira stated that the study's implications extend beyond this specific species, contributing to the understanding of how ecosystems function.
"Many species possess unique 'acoustic signatures' that can reveal activity patterns and ecological interactions."
Vieira noted that sound can assist in detecting invasive species, monitoring reproductive periods, mapping biodiversity, and identifying environmental changes.
The researchers highlighted the role of technologies such as action cameras and autonomous recorders, used in conjunction with artificial intelligence, for studying changes in sound diversity and abundance over time. This approach is currently being applied to monitor a recently detected invasive species in the Tagus estuary.
Rethinking the Underwater Soundscape
The researchers emphasized the existence of a vast underwater soundscape. While cetaceans and whales are widely recognized for their sounds, fish and invertebrates often dominate the underwater acoustic landscape in many areas. Analyzing their behavior provides insights into marine environments.
Clara Amorim, a researcher at the Faculty of Sciences and co-author of the study, stated that the long-held perception of a silent underwater environment is inaccurate.
"Many underwater environments are complex and noisy, forming a natural symphony."
She explained that sharing this diversity is intended to connect people with the ocean and foster a more conscious relationship with the marine environment.