SHARK MITIGATION SCIENCE

Accessible Research, Safer Waters

ABOUT
Which shark deterrent/repellents/mitigation strategies actually work? Companies use compelling marketing techniques to convince us that their products work, even if they don't. Not all products have been scientifically tested, and even if they have, it can be tricky to interpret (or find!) the science. This is a central space where the science behind shark mitigation measures is collated and transformed into an easy-to-understand format.
Shark mitigation types
Area mitigation aims to reduce the spatial overlap between humans and sharks. For example, shark nets, drumlines, detection (drones, spotters, tracking), exclusion barriers.
Personal mitigation aims to reduce the likelihood of a shark bite if a shark comes close to a person (e.g., within 2 meters). For example, electric/ magnetic/ smell/ audio based deterrents or repellants.
If all else fails and someone is bitten, these products aim to reduce the severity of the injuries. For example, bite-resistant wetsuit materials or chain mail suits.

Mitigation measure check list
Would you like to know if a particular product has been tested? See our quick check lists to find out.
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If you know of a publication that is not included on this website but should be, please contact us here.