Repeated measures of low-frequency underwater hearing sensitivity in individuals of three pinniped species tested over 4–7 years are presented. Despite changes in the experience of the subjects and certain testing parameters (e.g., equipment and research personnel), measured underwater hearing thresholds within subjects over relatively long periods of time were quite similar at the frequencies tested (0.2–6.4 kHz). These data address the reliability of acoustic signal detection measurements over time in pinnipeds using psychophysical techniques. They are also relevant in considering the cumulative effects of aging, experience, and noise exposure on pinniped hearing in certain frequency bands.
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© 2005 Acoustical Society of America.
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Acoustical Society of America