A global first in bioacoustics
An international team of researchers has published a landmark study in the journal Global Ecology and Biogeography titled "Worldwide Soundscapes: A Synthesis of Passive Acoustic Monitoring in Terrestrial Ecosystems". This research compiles, for the first time, data from passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) on a global scale, covering 2,750 sites across 52 countries and 11 terrestrial biomes. The goal: to provide a global snapshot of soundscapes to better understand biodiversity and the human footprint on ecosystems.
Sound as a new ecological indicator
Passive acoustic monitoring involves recording ambient environmental sounds without human presence. These recordings capture animal vocalizations, natural sounds like wind and rain, as well as human-generated noise such as traffic and industrial activity. By analyzing this data, researchers can assess species richness, detect rare or threatened species, and measure the impact of human activity on natural habitats.
Promising results for conservation
The study reveals significant variation in soundscapes depending on biome and level of human activity. For instance, protected areas show greater acoustic diversity—a sign of richer biodiversity. In contrast, urban or agricultural regions are dominated by anthropogenic sounds, often at the expense of natural ones. These insights are crucial for shaping conservation policies and identifying areas in need of urgent protection.
Towards a global sound map
This synthesis marks a key step toward building a global sound map of the planet. By standardizing the collection and analysis of acoustic data, researchers aim to enable continuous ecosystem monitoring and early detection of environmental changes. Sound is thus becoming a vital tool for science and nature preservation.
Have you ever paid attention to the sounds in your environment? What might they reveal about the health of your local ecosystem?