INFLUENCING THE CALLING OF SEA ROBINS (PRIONOTUS SPP.) WITH SOUND , ,

Abstract

Two different calls of sea robins (Prionotus carolinus and P. evolans) are described from Great Harbor at Woods Hole, Massachusetts. A vibrant grunt produced during handling and a staccato call produced during the breeding season are related to the air bladder and to behavioral patterns. A method of effecting a degree of control over production of the staccato call in nature by playing sounds into the water is described. The results are related to previous reports indicating lack of effect of man-made sounds on the behavior of fishes in nature, other than the quickening of swimming movements.