Atlantic cod could be at risk from noise created by wind farms and other off-shore developments, according to new University of Stirling research.

A study carried out by the University's world-leading Institute of Aquaculture found that Atlantic cod exposed to noise levels common in land-based aquaculture facilities exhibited significantly reduced rates of egg production and fertilisation.

But the researchers believe this could also have implications for Atlantic cod in the wild.

Dr Andrew Davie, of the University's world leading Institute of Aquaculture, said: "We need to be cautious as our study focused on the noise generated in enclosed, on-shore aquaculture facilities, while in wild context cod have greater opportunity to escape from noise disturbances.

"However, as noise generated by off-shore engineering and shipping increases, the soundscape of our oceans is undoubtedly changing and the implications for native fish stocks needs to be investigated.

Read the full story at Phys.org >>

Read more about Atlantic cod >>