Determining the Role of Hand Feeding Practices in Accidental Shark Bites on Scuba Divers
Published online on 26. November 2015
Determining the Role of Hand Feeding Practices in Accidental Shark Bites on Scuba Divers
Clua EE and Torrente F
ABSTRACT:
Introduction: Shark-based ecotourism is significantly developing around the world, often without appropriate management of risk. This activity involves a risk of accidental bites on divers that can be quite severe or even fatal.
Objectives: To determine if ecotourism companies’ liability can be engaged in the context of bites on scuba divers in presence of hand-feeding practices, supporting the legitimacy of financial compensation for the victims.
Methods: We analyzed the development from the mid-eighties to 2010 of shark-based ecotourism through artificial provisioning practices in Moorea Island (French Polynesia) and more specifically the features and motivation of two bites on divers by Sicklefin Lemon sharks.
Results: The specific practice of hand-feeding can be considered as a facilitating factor for accidental bites on divers, potentially involving the diving operator’s responsibility.
Conclusions: Our findings should support the technical work of experts that might be called in such cases.
Journal of Forensic Science & Criminology, Volume 3, Issue 5, ISSN: 2348-9804