Turn it Down! How Noise Harms Aquatic Beings

Aquariums are a source of fascination and learning, providing a glimpse into the enchanting underwater world. They house a variety of aquatic life, each contributing to the ecosystem's delicate balance. However, one aspect that often goes unnoticed is the impact of excessive noise on these aquatic inhabitants. Noise pollution, primarily arising from human activities, can have profound and detrimental effects on the health and behavior of aquarium dwellers.

The underwater world is not as silent as we perceive it to be. Sound travels five times faster in water than in air, making it an essential communication medium for aquatic species. Fish and other marine animals rely on sound for navigation, locating food, avoiding predators, and even for reproduction. However, the increasing levels of anthropogenic noise, particularly in aquarium settings, disrupt this acoustic landscape, leading to what scientists refer to as 'acoustic smog'.

Aquariums, especially public ones, are characterized by a constant hum of machinery, chatter of visitors, and even the reverberations of TV or music from nearby sources. These sounds, when amplified underwater, can reach levels that are distressing for the  inhabitants. Studies have shown that exposure to such excessive noise can lead to a plethora of physiological and behavioral changes in aquatic beings. 

Physiologically, excessive noise can cause auditory damage in fish and other aquatic animals. A study published in the journal 'Nature' revealed that noise levels common in many aquariums can temporarily or permanently damage the hearing of fish. This can significantly impair their ability to perceive their environment, making them more vulnerable to predators and hindering their ability to locate food.

Moreover, noise pollution can lead to chronic stress in aquarium occupants. Similar to humans, fish and other marine species exhibit a stress response when exposed to prolonged noise. This can result in elevated cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress, leading to a weakened immune system and increased susceptibility to diseases. It can also disrupt growth patterns and reproductive cycles, impacting the overall population dynamics within the aquarium.

Behaviorally, excessive noise can cause significant changes in the activities of marine animals. Fish exposed to high levels of noise have been observed to display altered swimming patterns and increased aggression. They also tend to spend more time hiding or attempting to escape, indicative of increased anxiety levels. These changes not only affect the individual fish but can also disrupt the social structures within the aquarium.

Noise pollution can also affect the feeding behavior of fish. A study conducted on European seabass showed that the fish exposed to noise spent less time feeding and exhibited a reduced response to food. This could potentially lead to malnutrition and a decrease in overall health and vitality.

Furthermore, excessive noise can interfere with the reproductive behavior of aquatic species. Many species of fish and invertebrates use sound cues for mating. Noise pollution can mask these signals, leading to reduced mating success and, consequently, affecting the population dynamics within the aquarium.

Aquariums serve as a microcosm of the larger aquatic environment, and the impact of noise pollution within these settings mirrors the challenges faced by marine life in the wild. As such, it is crucial to address this issue not only to improve the welfare of aquarium inhabitants but also to contribute to the broader conservation efforts.

Mitigating the impact of noise pollution in aquariums is essential. Following are some general rules for aquarium placement and setup:

• Don't put aquariums near TVs, stereos or noise sources. 
• If an aquarium filter is making noise that it shouldn't, repair or replace it. 
• Try to block noise sources if you can't put the aquarium in a relatively quiet place.

In conclusion, excessive noise in aquariums significantly impacts the physiological and behavioral aspects of marine life, affecting their health, growth, and survival. As custodians of these captivating underwater worlds, it is our responsibility to ensure a conducive environment for these aquatic inhabitants. By understanding and mitigating the impact of noise pollution, we can contribute to the welfare of aquatic life in aquariums and beyond.