Illuminated Surfboards May Help Deter Sharks

Australian researchers have discovered that covering surfboards with bright horizontal lights may reduce the likelihood of great white shark attacks. Conducted by biologist Laura Ryan and her team at Macquarie University, the study revealed that the lights distort the silhouette of a surfer on the ocean’s surface, making them appear less appealing to sharks, which often attack from below. The research, published in the journal Current Biology, involved testing various LED configurations on seal-shaped decoys in South Africa’s Mossel Bay. The findings showed that brighter, horizontal lights were more effective at deterring shark interest compared to vertical alternatives. Ryan is now developing prototypes to potentially incorporate these lights into surfboards and kayaks to enhance safety for water sports enthusiasts. While Australia’s shark management strategies are comprehensive, this research may lead to less invasive mitigation measures. Further studies are planned to investigate the effects of the lights on other shark species.