Uploaded February 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
A world-first study has found an electrical shark deterrent can reduce sharks stealing fish off fishing lines by 63%.
Researchers from The University of Western Australia tested the device during 51 fishing sessions at Cocos (Keeling) Islands — an area with high grey reef shark activity. The results? Fewer fish lost, reduced shark bycatch, and less damaged fishing gear.
Shark depredation costs commercial and recreational fishers time, fuel, money, and catch — and can increase negative interactions with sharks. This breakthrough offers a practical, science-backed solution.
Is this the future of shark-smart fishing?
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The University of Western Australia (UWA) is recognised internationally as a top 100 university. Browse our channel to learn about our ground-breaking research, state-of-the-art facilities and vibrant student experience.
For more information: https://www.uwa.edu.au/
﹏
Facebook: facebook.com/universitywa
Twitter: twitter.com/uwanews
Instagram: instagram.com/universitywa
A world-first study has found an electrical shark deterrent can reduce sharks stealing fish off fishing lines by 63%.
Researchers from The University of Western Australia tested the device during 51 fishing sessions at Cocos (Keeling) Islands — an area with high grey reef shark activity. The results? Fewer fish lost, reduced shark bycatch, and less damaged fishing gear.
Shark depredation costs commercial and recreational fishers time, fuel, money, and catch — and can increase negative interactions with sharks. This breakthrough offers a practical, science-backed solution.
Is this the future of shark-smart fishing?
﹏
The University of Western Australia (UWA) is recognised internationally as a top 100 university. Browse our channel to learn about our ground-breaking research, state-of-the-art facilities and vibrant student experience.
For more information: https://www.uwa.edu.au/
﹏
Facebook: facebook.com/universitywa
Twitter: twitter.com/uwanews
Instagram: instagram.com/universitywa
