TED Talks Daily

The secret soundtrack of the sea | TEDxSHORTS

Jul 27, 2020
Steve Simpson, a marine biologist and fish ecologist, unveils the fascinating soundscapes of the ocean and their role in marine life. He explains how baby fish use sound to navigate their habitats. Simpson discusses the stark differences in underwater acoustics between healthy and overfished reefs, revealing the impact of human actions on marine ecosystems. He also highlights the threats posed by noise pollution and climate change, along with efforts to restore the ocean's acoustic environments for better conservation.
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INSIGHT

Ocean Soundscapes

  • Reef noise has patterns, indicating coral health and species diversity.
  • Fish use these soundscapes to choose habitats, similar to humans researching cities.
ANECDOTE

Reef Comparisons

  • Balicasag, a protected area in the Philippines, has a vibrant soundscape.
  • Overfished reefs like Belang Belangan are nearly silent, hindering fish settlement.
INSIGHT

Changing Soundscapes

  • Human actions like overfishing and lack of protection change the ocean's soundtrack.
  • The once vibrant Great Barrier Reef has become quieter due to coral death from rising water temperatures.
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