Multiscale spatio-temporal patterns of boat noise on U.S. Virgin Island coral reefs

Sound-sensitive organisms are abundant on coral reefs. Accordingly, experiments suggest that boat noise could elicit adverse effects on coral reef organisms. Yet, there are few data quantifying boat noise prevalence on coral reefs. We use long-term passive acoustic recordings at nine coral reefs and one sandy comparison site in a marine protected area to quantify spatio-temporal variation in boat noise and its effect on the soundscape. Boat noise was most common at reefs with high coral cover and fish density, and temporal patterns reflected patterns of human activity. Boat noise significantly increased low-frequency sound levels at the monitored sites. With boat noise present, the peak frequencies of the natural soundscape shifted from higher frequencies to the lower frequencies frequently used in fish communication. Taken together, the spectral overlap between boat noise and fish communication and the elevated boat detections on reefs with biological densities raises concern for coral reef organisms. •Boat noise increased sound levels, especially in the range of fish communication.•Boat noise activity varied temporally, reflecting peak times of human activity.•Coral reefs with the greatest fish and coral density had the highest boat activity.•Spectral overlap between boat and biogenic noise raises concern for communication.