Survey of ambient noise in aquariums.

Abstract

Owning and maintaining an aquarium is a common hobby, but the ambient noise in aquariums resulting from pumps, filters, bubblers, and other equipment is not well studied. Elevated ambient noise levels have been shown to adversely affect wild fish and marine invertebrates, and anecdotal evidence suggests that this may be a problem in aquariums as well. Aquariums designed to maintain coral reefs require high water flow and pristine water conditions, which in turn require pumps and protein skimmers that contribute to underwater noise. A survey of ambient noise in both fresh and saltwater aquariums ranging in size from 5 to 550 gal was conducted. The aquariums differed in construction material, number, size and type of pumps, and presence of other equipment. The ambient noise broadband levels, spectrum levels, and time-frequency representations are compared, and general conclusions are drawn about noise characteristics of equipment and aquariums.