Aversive responses of captive sandbar sharks to strong magnetic fields
Published online on 20. June 2016
Aversive responses of captive sandbar sharks Carcharhinus plumbeus to strong magnetic fields
A. Siegenthaler, P. R. W. Niemantsverdriet, M. Laterveer, I. M. A. Heitkönig
ABSTRACT :
This experimental study focused on the possible deterrent effect of permanent magnets on adult sandbar sharks Carcharhinus plumbeus. Results showed that the presence of a magnetic field significantly reduced the number of approaches of conditioned C. plumbeus towards a target indicating that adult C. plumbeus can be deterred by strong magnetic fields. These data, therefore, confirm that the use of magnetic devices to reduce shark by-catch is a promising avenue.
Journal of Fish Biology. Early View Version, doi: 10.1111/jfb.13064