The sounds of turtles to prevent their accidental capture

Accidental capture of sea turtles in fishing nets is a major issue, threatening both these essential species and the fisheries’ economy. In Martinique, for example, around 800 green turtles are caught each year in gillnets. These accidental interactions cause damage to the nets, economic losses for fishermen, and jeopardize the survival of the turtles. However, a promising new approach could emerge: using the sounds emitted by these reptiles to prevent their capture.

Sea turtles, much more sensitive to sounds than previously thought

Long considered silent creatures and insensitive to noise, recent research has shown that sea turtles produce sounds in certain situations. These vocalizations, including growls, squeaks, and rumbles, are often emitted in response to social stimuli or danger. These discoveries have paved the way for a revolutionary idea: using these sounds to protect sea turtles from fishing nets.

A crucial ecological role

Sea turtles play a fundamental role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. They regulate populations of jellyfish, sponges, and other marine organisms, promoting the health of seagrass beds and coral reefs. Their preservation is therefore critical, not only for biodiversity but also to maintain the ecological balance of the oceans.

Promising acoustic technology

Studies conducted between 2018 and 2023 in Martinique revealed that turtles respond strongly to the sounds produced by their peers. Tests with hydrophones attached to turtles identified ten distinct sound types, classified into four main categories: pulses, low-amplitude calls, frequency-modulated sounds, and squeaks. These sounds were then broadcasted to turtles in their natural habitat. The result: in 95% of cases, the turtles reacted, primarily by rapidly fleeing.

Acoustics, a solution to prevent captures

Inspired by acoustic devices used to keep cetaceans away from fishing nets, the idea of using sounds emitted by the turtles themselves could be an innovative solution. Acoustic Deterrent Devices (ADD) have already proven effective in reducing accidental dolphin captures in some regions, such as the Bay of Biscay. Integrating a similar technology adapted to sea turtles could significantly reduce unintended captures while being less costly than other solutions, such as visual devices.

Long-term perspectives

Although the acoustic approach is still in the experimental phase, it could quickly become a valuable tool for the conservation of sea turtles. By integrating this technology into commercial fisheries and continuing research on turtles' behavioral responses to different sounds, this method could revolutionize how we protect these vulnerable species.

And you, do you think that using natural sounds could be an effective solution to protect sea turtles and preserve biodiversity?

Source(s) : Theconversation.com

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30/10/2024