Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

2024

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Kajiura, Stephen

Abstract

This study examined the effectiveness of a magnetic shark deterrent, the SharkBanz® Zeppelin, and quantified the magnetic field it produces. A shark entering the magnetic field induces an electric field that is detectable by electroreceptors. This novel stimulus may deter sharks away from hooked fish. The magnitude declined rapidly with distance and reached the ambient geomagnetic field at 36-39 cm away. Zeppelin devices and non-magnetic controls were deployed with baited remote underwater video systems, and the responses of sharks were recorded. There was a significant difference between the number of sharks deterred between the Zeppelin and control. The Zeppelin deterred sharks on 22% of their approaches in the effective range, whereas the control deterred them on 2.6% of their approaches. Although the device may be effective at deterring sharks and act as a mitigation strategy for shark depredation, tests with live fish that provide more sensory stimuli are needed.

Extent

72 p.

Comments

Includes bibliography.|Thesis (MS)--Florida Atlantic University, 2024.|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Includes bibliography.

Identifier

FA00014556

Format

pdf

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