Interesting! Study says chatty fish gossip and may have regional accents

Scientists are investigating whether fish have regional accents along the British coastline.

Research has already shown that European cod have distinct dialects to their transatlantic American cousins.

"This species is highly vocal with traditional breeding grounds established over hundreds or even thousands of years, so the potential for regionalism is there," said Professor Steve Simpson, a marine biologist leading a new study at University of Exeter.

But as climate change drives cold-water species north, fish with different vocal repertoires could be pushed together and struggle to integrate, share territory and breed.

The study also found "chatty" fish are being drowned out by the noise of boat engines - and it could put Friday night cod and chips at risk.

Fish make distinct sounds with their swim bladders to assert territorial claims, seek a mate and "gossip" with others in the shoal.

Male cod produce thumping and rumbling sounds as they swim towards the surface with a female to convince her to release eggs, while parrotfish are known to make crunching noises as they eat algae on reefs. 

Clownfish in colonies make a popping sound to show dominance and purr to show submission, while the male midshipman hums to attract female companions.

But the study has found that the barrage of sound from marine traffic is making it difficult for fish to make themselves heard.

Professor Simpson's study is investigating the effects of such noise pollution on the behaviour of cod, haddock and other species.

"We may find that the 'gossip' essential to their society is being drowned out," he said.

"If we value our fish stocks - or our Friday night fish supper - we need to understand this.

"Seawater is hundreds of times denser than air, so sounds travel much faster and further. 

"We have found that fish on coral reefs are susceptible to noise pollution but we are yet to study the effects in our own waters, which are some of the busiest in the world."

Professor Simpson is discussing his study at the Natural Environment Research Council's Into The Blue event in Liverpool later.

Follow The Forefront on:

   > facebook Global audience 

   > facebook Nigerian audience  
   > The Forefront on Twitter
   >BBM Channel: C002CB006 {WELCOME TO THE FOREFRONT}

>{Instagram: the_forefront_nigeria }

 Connect with Joshua Osagie (Blog owner) 
 >  facebook personal account 
 > facebook  (fan page) 

 > twitter

 > Instagram: osagiejoshua

Share this post with others on social media with options below.