Unlike chemical or electronic deterrents, acoustic and visual methods aim to confuse, intimidate, or repel sharks using sound or visual stimuli. These approaches have varying levels of effectiveness depending on the species and environmental conditions.
1. Acoustic Shark Deterrents (Sound-Based)
These devices use specific sound frequencies to deter sharks, but their effectiveness is debated.
SharkStopper (Personal Acoustic Shark Deterrent)
• Technology: Emits an underwater sound mimicking the distress calls of orcas (a known shark predator).
• Best For: Surfers, swimmers, and divers.
• Pros: Non-invasive, does not harm marine life.
• Cons: Mixed results in tests; some sharks may become accustomed to the noise over time.
Boat & Surfboard Acoustic Devices
• Some boats use underwater speakers to play predator sounds or random frequencies to deter sharks.
• Studies suggest that low-frequency pulsing noises can deter some species, but results vary.
2. Visual Shark Deterrents (Color, Patterns, and Light)
These deterrents rely on disrupting a shark’s vision or mimicking unappealing prey to reduce the chance of an attack.
Shark Eyes (Anti-Shark Decals & Wetsuits)
• Technology: Uses large eye-like patterns on wetsuits, fins, and surfboards to discourage ambush attacks.
• Best For: Divers, surfers, spearfishers.
• Pros: Simple, no batteries or maintenance required.
• Cons: Less effective in murky water or close-range encounters.
SAMS (Shark Attack Mitigation Systems) Wetsuits
• Technology: Specially designed wetsuits with black-and-white disruptive camouflage to make divers/surfers look less like prey.
• Best For: Surfers, divers in shark-prone areas.
• Pros: Scientifically tested, no power needed, long-lasting.
• Cons: Not 100% foolproof, works best in clear water.
LED Light-Based Deterrents
• Some experimental devices use flashing LED lights to confuse or repel sharks.
• Research is ongoing, but flashing light patterns may be more effective in low-visibility conditions.
Effectiveness & Considerations
• Acoustic deterrents show mixed results, as sharks may adapt to repeated sounds.
• Visual deterrents work best at a distance but may be ineffective in murky water or for close encounters.
• Combining visual, acoustic, and electronic deterrents may offer the best protection.