Magnetic shark repellent claims to keep sharp-toothed predators at bay

If all you're bringing to the seashore is a swimsuit, towel and sunscreen, you may want to add another item to your beach bag – magnetic shark repellent.

According to WTSP, a new product called Sharkbanz claims to keep the sharp-toothed predators at bay while you're in the water.

>> Click here to watch the news report

The product, a band that can be worn on the wrist or ankle, repels sharks using a powerful magnet, WTSP reports.

In murky waters, "sharks rely heavily on their electro-receptors instead of their eyes to 'see' what's around them," according to the Sharkbanz website.

"As the shark approaches a person wearing Sharkbanz, magnetic waves coming from the band disrupt its electro-receptors and it quickly turns away. ... Once a shark comes near the band, it frequently leaves the area and does not return."

>> Watch Sharkbanz in action

Eric Hovland of the Florida Aquarium told WTSP that the product may actually work.

"When they're coming in close to a bait and there's a magnet there, it may make it difficult to get in on their object," he said.
Unfortunately, the repellent doesn't deter great white sharks.

"Great Whites are unique in that they are the only shark that acts as an ambush predator, attacking from a long distance at high speed," the Sharkbanz website says. "There is no effective way to prevent this type of ambush attack."

Learn more here or here.

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