Sing Like Fish: How Sound Rules Life Under Water BY Amorina Kingdon

"Sing Like Fish" by Amorina Kingdon: A Summary

"Sing Like Fish" by award-winning science journalist Amorina Kingdon delves into the fascinating world of underwater soundscapes, a realm long misunderstood as silent. Marine life depends on a complex array of sounds for survival, from feeding and mating to navigating and warning of danger. Kingdon highlights how various species, like the plainfin midshipman fish and whales, use unique sounds—ranging from drumming to intricate songs—to communicate and thrive in their habitats.

The book reveals the crucial role of sound in the marine ecosystem and how human activities, such as shipping and oil extraction, introduce disruptive noise pollution. This anthropogenic noise masks important natural sounds, interferes with animal behaviors, and can even cause physical harm to marine organisms, from the smallest plankton to larger creatures like lobsters.

Kingdon synthesizes historical insights with cutting-edge scientific research, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of oceanic acoustics. Her evocative writing not only educates but also advocates for a future where human noise is minimized to protect these vital underwater ecosystems. Through "Sing Like Fish," Kingdon provides a profound new perspective on the importance of sound in the ocean, urging a reevaluation of our impact on this hidden world.