Dardanelles Strait Underwater Sound Level Reaches 59.8 dB

Istanbul: The first underwater sound level measurement conducted in the Dardanelles Strait stands at 59.8 decibels (dB), surpassing the maximum level of 50, according to a study.

Anakkale University Academic Halit Kusku said that scientific measurements and evaluations in the world’s oceans indicated normal underwater sound levels ranging from five to 50 decibels, reported Hurriyet Daily News.

However, the level of the Dardanelles Strait exceeded the upper limit by 9.8 decibels, Halit added.

Increased shipping traffic accompanied by technological and industrial advancements, urbanization, and population growth are the main reasons for the high underwater sound levels, stated Kusku, who led the study.

Halit expressed concern about the potential adverse impacts of the increasing sound of the strait on its rich ecosystem and marine life . As sound serves as an effective means of communication for marine creatures, it affects their reproduction, development, hunting and daily life activities, he further said.

The key issue is whether the noise potential exists that could impact their sound frequencies and levels, Academician added.

The Dardanelles Strait is a strategic and important waterway in northwestern Turkey. It links the Black Sea with the Mediterranean Sea and provides the only seaward access to the ancient city of Constantinople (Istanbul). Xinhua/APP