Shark repellent discovered
16th May 2012
New research indicates that magnets and certain metals can repel sharks
Divers and surfers can relax as they take to the water now, thanks to the discovery of a new shark repellent. Eric Stroud, an American chemist, has shown that magnets overwhelm the electrical sensors on a shark's snout, causing it to dart away.
Testing is still in its early stages but already indicates that some metals could also produce similar results to magnets. This is great news for water-loving holiday-makers, especially since reports of fatal unprovoked shark attacks in 2011 are higher than they've been since 1993.
Small gel-filled sensors are used by sharks to navigate the magnetic fields of the earth and detect their prey. A spinning magnet confuses these sensors causing the animal distress, which is akin, Stroud believes, to the flash of a bright light in the eyes.
It is not yet known how all species of shark respond and concerns have been raised about the size and weight of magnets needed to be effective. An Australian study in 2009 indicated that only five shark species are repelled by magnets but scientists and shark experts remain hopeful. “It could work if a lot more research was done,” says Rob Lawrence, a South African cage diver with 20 years experience of working with great white sharks.
Research is also being done into the potential for magnets and metals to be used to help prevent the accidental over-fishing of sharks. Often caught in the nets of boats targeting other fish, many shark species are dwindling in number. Since fish are not affected in the same way, magnetised nets and hooks are now being tested to address this problem.
Shark deterrents using electronic waves are already in use; however Stroud's magnetic discovery offers new hope to aquaphiles all over the world.
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