Buzz
By Chris Gayomali
Shark attacks, though exceedingly rare in the United States, hit their highest levels in a decade in 2012, as reported by a University of Florida study. With data from Hawaii and Puerto Rico included, there were 53 incidents in U.S. waters, resulting in a fatality rate of only two percent.
To put it in perspective, the likelihood of dying from a lightning strike remains higher.
In other regions, especially along Western Australia's coastline, the narrative shifts. Here, the surf is crystal clear, and great white sharks are plentiful. Despite humans posing a far greater threat to sharks—through practices like shark finning, which has driven their numbers to alarmingly low levels worldwide—a string of notable incidents has branded the area as a hotspot for shark attacks.
For surfers, whether local or international, the dream of a shark-repellent wetsuit has long been a coveted goal, primarily for the reassurance it offers. Researchers from the University of Western Australia, collaborating with Shark Attack Mitigation Systems (SAMS), have unveiled two innovative wetsuits aimed at reducing your appeal as a shark's meal: one renders you nearly invisible to sharks, while the other mimics the appearance of a poisonous fish they naturally steer clear of.
Contrary to popular belief, sharks possess remarkable eyesight. Their visual systems, though similar to humans', feature stacked duplex retinas that enable them to spot prey even in dim, cloudy waters. The "invisibility suit," as explained by researchers, exploits a "blind spot" in the visual acuity of pelagic sharks, effectively cloaking the wearer.
The concept for the second shark-deterrent suit isn't new. The distinctive black and white stripes of the toxic pilotfish have been recognized as a natural repellent for years. Interestingly, these fish often swim alongside sharks without fear.
While neither wetsuit can guarantee absolute safety, they are undoubtedly a better option than anything that might make you resemble an easy target, like a vulnerable seal.
Additional Stories from The Week...
Discovered: The Historic Space Rockets that Launched Neil Armstrong Toward the Moon
*
The Massive Beanie Baby Craze
*
Introducing the Planet's Biggest Virus
