Impact of an acoustic stimulus on the motility and blood parameters of European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax L.) and gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata L.)

The physiological responses of fish to underwater noise are poorly understood and further information is needed to evaluate any possible negative effects of sound exposure. We exposed European sea bass and gilthead sea bream to a 0.1–1 kHz linear sweep (150 dBrms re 1 μPa). This band frequency is perceptible by many species of fish and is mainly produced by vessel traffic. We assessed the noise-induced motility reaction (analysing the movements) and the haematological responses (measuring blood glucose and lactate, and haematocrit levels). The noise exposure produced a significant increase in motility as well as an increase in lactate and haematocrit levels in sea bream and sea bass. A significant decrease of glucose was only observed in sea bream. A linear correlation between blood parameters and motility in fish exposed to the noise was observed. The acoustic stimulus produced intense muscle activity.