Global Sounds: Development of a low-cost hydrophone for research, education and community science

The integration of affordable hydrophone technology plays a pivotal role in advancing marine bioacoustics, a field essential for understanding and protecting marine biodiversity. Sound is a critical component of marine environments, influencing the behaviour, communication, and survival of numerous aquatic species. By deploying low-cost, open-source hydrophones, we enable continuous, widespread monitoring of underwater soundscapes. This democratisation of technology not only supports scientific research but also empowers community scientists and educators in underserved regions, enhancing global participation in ocean monitoring and conservation.

*[IMAGE: electronics ready for prototypes | Credit: Lucille Chapuis]
[AUTHOR: Lucille Chapuis, on behalf of the IQOE Task Team]