Researchers at Macquarie University have developed a promising non-invasive technology designed to deter Great White shark attacks by disrupting the visual cues that attract these apex predators. Relying heavily on their sense of sight, Great Whites often mistake the silhouettes of surfers and swimmers for their natural prey, such as seals. The team drew inspiration from juvenile plainfin midshipman fish, which use light-producing organs to obscure their silhouettes from predators. By creating LED-equipped, seal-shaped decoys and testing various light patterns in waters known for high shark activity, the researchers discovered that specific light configurations could effectively break up the decoys’ outlines, making them less recognizable to sharks. This innovative approach not only holds potential for enhancing safety for ocean users like surfers but also contributes valuable insights into shark behavior. The findings have been published in the journal Current Biology.