Broadband acoustic impact on the adhesion of marine fouling organisms from Sevastopol Bay: experimental study and modeling
A.V. Kuznetsov, D.N. Vtyurina
Section: Methodology and research methods. Models and forecasts
This study investigates the effects of low-power broadband acoustic waves on the adhesion of marine fouling organisms from Sevastopol Bay. Designed to evaluate the potential of acoustic methods as an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional toxic coatings for preventing biofouling on artificial structures, the experiment was conducted during the summer of 2024. The experimental setup consisted of two identical containers: one serving as a control and the other equipped with an acoustic emitter operating in the frequency range of 0–30 kHz. Glass slides were placed in both containers to monitor the adhesion of marine organisms. The results indicated a statistically significant reduction (p < 0.01) in Mytilaster lineatus (Gmelin, 1791) fouling on the glass slides within the experimental container compared to the control. This suggests that low-power acoustic waves can effectively suppress the biofouling initial stages, potentially disrupting the settlement and growth of marine organisms on underwater surfaces. Agent-based modeling was employed to further elucidate the ecological dynamics. This computational approach enabled the simulation of complex interactions within the fouling community, revealing intricate structural relationships and changes in the composition and development of biofouling communities. The model demonstrated various community development scenarios, providing valuable insights into the ecological consequences of interventions. Overall, the results underscore the importance of considering multiple factors in the management of marine biofouling. This study not only contributes to the theoretical understanding of fouling processes but also offers practical insights for developing sustainable and environmentally sound strategies to mitigate biofouling on marine infrastructure. Future research should focus on optimizing acoustic parameters and investigating the long-term ecological consequences of such interventions across diverse marine environments.
ISSN 1995-4301
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