Research

Stress of

Prey

Correlation between stress of prey and approach method of Bullsharks in the presence of drifting seaweed

Initial position

Bullsharks are often observed swimming underneath floating seaweed close to shore. One hypothesis is that they use seaweed as camouflage to hide their own shadows on the ground, or because they are less visible in the shadows of the seaweed.

Target

Determine whether relaxed or stressed prey influence the approach pattern of bullsharks when seaweed is present or not around.

Timeframe

Open, first results to be expected after 2 part of research series.

Benefit for people

If it can be proven that bullsharks use seaweed as camouflage, visitors of the beach can be properly informed, i.e. increase their attention in waters with seaweed and known bullshark population. If this can successfully be accomplished, and people on the beach become more attentive in such situations, incidents with bullsharks can be drastically reduced.