DeuteroNoise

Characterization of maritime noise in different European basins and its impact on ecological relevant deuterostome invertebrates

The DeuteroNoise project’s primary objective is to assess noise pollution stemming from maritime traffic, including the use of simulations, in specific locations across the North Adriatic Sea, Lagoon of Venice, North Sea, Black Sea, and the Barcelona shore. This research will examine its impact on the behavior, nervous system, sensory organs, immune system, and resilience of marine invertebrates closely related to vertebrates, collectively known as deuterostomes. This group comprises hemichordates, echinoderms, cephalochordates, and tunicates. These creatures are commonly found in European waters and span various trophic levels, ranging from holoplankton-meroplankton to sedentary primary consumers.

Through comparative studies, the project aims to:

1. Identify the causes of noise pollution in distinct sea basins.
2. Determine the species’ responses to such pollution.
3. Unearth the genetic and morphological indicators associated with noise pollution.
4. Predict sensitivities in closely related animals that are challenging to study either in the laboratory or on-site.
5. Forecast potential noise pollution trends and develop the best practices to achieve the Good Environmental Status of European sea basins.

Includes fellow AquaPLAN particiapnt Anton Dohrn Zoological Station (SZN).