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Abstract
A core task in endangered species conservation is identifying important habitats and
managing human activities to mitigate threats. Many marine organisms, from invertebrates
to fish to marine mammals, use acoustic cues to find food, avoid predators, choose
mates, and navigate. Ocean noise can affect animal behavior and disrupt trophic linkages.
Substantial potential exists for area-based management to reduce exposure of animals
to chronic ocean noise. Incorporating noise into spatial planning (e.g., critical
habitat designation or marine protected areas) may improve ecological integrity and
promote ecological resilience to withstand additional stressors. Previous work identified
areas with high ship noise requiring mitigation. This study introduces the concept
of "opportunity sites" - important habitats that experience low ship noise. Working
with existing patterns in ocean noise and animal distribution will facilitate conservation
gains while minimizing societal costs, by identifying opportunities to protect important
wildlife habitats that happen to be quiet.