Characterization of Open Water Explosions from Confiscated Explosives in the Philippines – Possible Implications to Local Marine Mammals

  • Archie I. Veloria University of the Philippines
  • Daniella T. Hernandez University of the Philippines
  • Giovanni A. Tapang University of the Philippines
  • Lemnuel V. Aragones University of the Philippines

Abstract

Underwater noise poses serious threats to marine mammals, which rely on underwater sound primarily for communication, orientation and foraging. In this study, underwater noise from dynamite fishing was analyzed to infer possible effects on local marine mammals, particularly cetaceans. Simulated explosions were performed on 9 July 2018 using confiscated explosives from illegal fishers in San Fernando, La Union. The acoustic properties of blasts from single pulse explosions were characterized using sound recordings captured by a hydrophone. Dominant frequencies from the sound recordings showed that the noise generated by the explosions can be perceived by marine mammals sensitive to the auditory bandwidth of 7 Hz to 180 kHz. Blast charge weights were estimated to determine sound pressure levels generated by the explosions at varying distances from the source. These results imply that marine mammals within 150 m of the explosion will experience debilitating injuries (e.g., acoustic trauma, disorientation) even from a single pulse. By characterizing the acoustic properties of these local explosives, its potential impacts to local marine mammals and other marine organisms can be elucidated. These acoustic calculations can be further enhanced by considering backscattered waves and determining the actual chemical composition of these explosives.
Published
2021-06-30
Issue
Vol 33 No 1 (2021)
Section
Articles

Keywords

marine mammals, cetaceans, underwater noise, underwater explosion, dynamite fishing, hydrophone
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