Reducing acoustic disturbances by aquarium visitors
Publication Type: |
Journal Article |
Year of Publication: |
1997 |
Authors: |
Helmut Kratochvil, Harald Schwammer |
Publication/Journal: |
Zoo Biology |
Publisher: |
A Wiley Company, Inc., Wiley Subscription Services |
Keywords: |
aquarium exhibitry, aquarium fish, zoo visitors |
ISBN: |
1098-2361 |
Abstract:
Abstract 10.1002/(SICI)1098-2361(1997)16:4<349::AID-ZOO7>3.3.CO;2-M Knocking on the glass front of aquarium exhibits is a considerable disturbance for resident fish. The knocking behavior of visitors to the Tiergarten Schönbrunn Wien was recorded, and the effect of signage in reducing this behavior was experimentally tested. Knocking occurred at a rate of nearly two knocks per 100 visitors during baseline recording. Three different information signs achieved a reduction of this behavior by 10, 18, and 28%, respectively. Knocking on weekdays was significantly higher than on weekends. The addition of protective glass panes may be required to further reduce the acoustic effects of knocking in the case of highly sensitive fish species. Zoo Biol 16:349–353, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.