How can underwater noise pollution impact marine life?

Underwater noise pollution significantly disrupts the natural behaviors of marine life, making it an important concern for aquatic ecosystems. Many marine species, particularly cetaceans and fish, rely heavily on sound for communication, navigation, and hunting. Elevated levels of noise from shipping, construction, and other human activities can mask important sounds that these creatures use to locate prey, communicate with each other, and navigate through their environments.

As a result, the disruption can lead to difficulties in finding food, increased stress levels due to confusion or fear, and challenges in social interactions. These impacts can ultimately affect population dynamics and the overall health of marine ecosystems. Thus, the assertion that such noise pollution disrupts communication, navigation, and predation behaviors aligns with extensive scientific research highlighting the adverse effects of noise on marine species.