Thursday, December 12, 2024

Can LED Lights Reduce the Risk of Shark Attacks?

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In a recent roundup of nature news, Mooney Goes Wild contributor Terry Flanagan highlights an innovative solution to reduce great white shark attacks on swimmers. Australian scientists conducted a study showing that LED lights attached to the underside of surfboards can effectively deter sharks by altering their visual perception. The research found that bright lights disrupt the sharks’ ability to see dark shapes against the water’s surface, making them less likely to target surfers. Lead author Dr. Laura Ryan of Macquarie University noted that this phenomenon suggests great whites may mistake humans for prey due to their lower visual acuity. The study, conducted in South Africa’s Mossel Bay, indicates a promising future for enhanced safety on the water, with prototypes for illuminated surfboards and kayaks currently in development.

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