Research Document - 2008/060

Potential Effects of Seismic Energy on Fish and Shellfish: An Update Since 2003

By J.F. Payne, C. Andrews, L. Fancey, D. White, and J. Christian

Abstract

Literature appearing since 2003 to February 2008 on the effects of seismic on fish and shellfish was reviewed. A few studies are now available indicating absence of effects at the population level. However, if seismic surveys are having effects on fish or shellfish at the population level, it is understood that they would not be readily measurable due to confounding factors such as natural variability, fishing pressure and animal migration. The primary concern would seem to be in relation to the potential for producing impacts at the stock or sub-stock level, such as in a particular region or bay, or in shallow coastal or Arctic waters. There is some evidence suggesting a potential for seismic to have sublethal effects at the individual level viz physiological and histopathological. Thus, there is need for selected dose-response studies to investigate for effects at this particular level in order to provide a better informed opinion on any risk that may be associated with seismic surveys. Selected studies would also be of value for the development of potential indices which might be of interest for use in any required monitoring programs.

A few representative studies focused on elucidating potential chronic effects, such as under the conditions of a 3D survey, are also warranted. For instance, would exposure of codfish to seismic sounds over a 3-week survey period perturb neurohormonal systems to a sufficient degree to affect the internal development of eggs or sperm? Such representative studies are needed if only for assurance. They would also help to identify any need for airgun-based sound reference levels for fish and shellfish, an undertaking which would be gargantuan in nature given the myriad numbers of species that could be invoked for study.

Seismic airguns can produce low levels of noise at considerable distance from source. However, with respect to ambient ocean noise and animal behavior, the cacophony of noise associated with ships could be of greater importance.

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