Effects of electromagnetic radiation from offshore wind power on the physiology and behavior of two marine fishes

With the widespread promotion of wind power, its potential ecological impacts on marine ecosystems have raised concerns, among which electromagnetic radiation is one of the significant impacts. It is well known that the effects of electromagnetic fields on different marine organisms vary greatly, but little is known about their effects on commercially important fish species. We studied the toxicity differences between the large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea) and the black sea bream (Acanthopagrus schlegelii) when exposed to magnetic field strengths of 0mT, 0.5mT, 1.0mT, 1.5mT and 2.0mT. We found that under the 1.5mT and 2.0mT, the swimming velocity of L. crocea and A. schlegelii was reduced and the antioxidant enzymes in the body had a protective function on the body. Under the 2.0mT, the stress response of A. schlegelii was higher and the immune systems of both fish species were activated. The electromagnetic intensity below 2.0mT was more sensitive to L. crocea and A. schlegelii. However, electromagnetic radiation seems to have no significant effect on the nutrient absorption capacity of the organisms. After several days of recovery, all affected markers showed signs of reversibility. In summary, the experiment could provide valuable data for developing early warning systems and preventive measures to mitigate potential threats to marine life from offshore wind farms.