October 18, 2019 — Fun fact: Sharks, unlike fish, can sense electrical stimuli, according to scientists.
Researchers in North Carolina are hoping to use that biological trait to their advantage with the help of a small electronic device designed to protect sharks from overfishing, N.C. State University announced in a press release this month.
The device, which “has shown promise in the laboratory,” is reportedly ready to start pilot testing off the Outer Banks.
“Several sharks are overfished or are experiencing overfishing on the U.S. East Coast,” fisheries extension specialist Sara Mirabilio said in the release. “Populations of scalloped hammerhead, dusky, sandbar and blacknose sharks all could benefit from an effective deterrent from commercial fishing gear.”
The device could also help fishermen save time and money. Sharks like to chomp on fish while they’re hooked — leaving fishermen with just a head by the time the fish are reeled in, the Virginian-Pilot reported.
Capt. Charlie Locke, an Outer Banks fisherman, has partnered with researchers on the project.