Abstract

An acoustics survey has been performed at Genova (Italy) Aquarium aiming at characterizing the acoustic environment of tropical underwater habitats. Mid-term (5-7 days) and short-term measurements (10-20 min) within different fish tanks containing tropical habitats have been chosen for a preliminary analysis. Eco-acoustic indices and statistical-related acoustic indices have been applied to derive information on the population activity and determine the bio-acoustic richness. Such approach will be used to compare environments with different degree of disturbance and derive information on the environmental quality of both artificial and natural habitats