Decision Makers Sound Source Tutorial Introduction

This tutorial is designed for a decision maker to learn the basics about anthropogenic sound sources in the marine environment. The user can proceed from one topic to the next in sequence or jump to a topics of special interest.

The ocean is full of both natural and anthropogenic sources of sound (see What are common underwater sounds?). Much attention has been focused on anthropogenic sound sources in the ocean and potential effects on marine animals. These effects may include an alteration in behavior, the inability to hear important sounds (masking), hearing loss (temporary or permanent), and other physiological effects. See the DOSITS tutorials on Potential Effects of Sound and Determine if a Sound Affects a Marine Animal.

Anthropogenic Sound Sources Tutorial Sections:

• Tutorial: Commercial Vessel Traffic
• Tutorial: Echosounders
• Tutorial: Pile Driving
• Tutorial: Seismic Airgun
• Tutorial: Sonar Source
• Tutorial: Wind Turbine

The content on DOSITS is based on well understood scientific principles, peer-reviewed literature, and high-quality sources of scientific data. Independent experts who specialize in underwater acoustics have reviewed the material in this section.