Fish Attraction with Pulsed Low-Frequency Sound

Abstract

A series of tests were conducted to determine the effectiveness of pulsed low-frequency acoustic signals for attracting fishes. The acoustic signals were contrived to simulate the hydrodynamically generated disturbances normally associated with active predation. Underwater television was used to observe fish arrivals during both control and test periods. Demersal predatory fishes were successfully attracted although they habituated rapidly to the acoustic stimulus. Members of the families Serranidae, Lutjanidae, and Pomadasyidae were particularly well represented among the fishes attracted. Sharks were also attracted in considerable numbers. Herbivorous reef fishes, although common around the test site, were not attracted. Possible relationships between the test results and the hearing capabilities of fishes are discussed. It is concluded that acoustic attraction techniques have potential applications in certain existing commercial fisheries.