Abstract
Bycatch of sharks, rays, and other elasmobranchs is a critical problem in global commercial and recreational fisheries, often representing up to 25% of total catch. This unintended capture threatens vulnerable shark populations and disrupts marine ecosystems. Current bycatch reduction methods rely on lanthanide-based shark deterrents, which generate electric fields detectable by elasmobranchs. However, these solutions suffer from rapid dissolution in seawater, short lifespans (losing up to 70% mass in 40 hours), high costs driven by demand in electronics, and hazardous handling during manufacturing. A safer, longer-lasting, and more economical alternative is urgently needed.
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University have developed a novel fishing sinker that overcomes the limitations of lanthanide-based deterrents. The sinker incorporates a quick-attach/quick-detach channel for ease of use and is constructed from a zinc and graphite combination that produces stable voltage gradients in seawater, effectively overwhelming the electrosensory systems of sharks and rays. Unlike lanthanides, this design avoids rapid dissolution, reduces cost, and eliminates handling hazards, making it more practical for widespread adoption. The technology has been prototyped, tested under controlled laboratory conditions, and demonstrated to generate deterrent voltages comparable to lanthanides, with further development aimed at field validation in commercial fishing operations.
FAU seeks to advance this innovation into the marketplace through licensing or development partnerships.
Benefit
Cost-Effective - Low-cost zinc/graphite replaces expensive lanthanidesDurable - Maintains effectiveness without rapid dissolutionEasy Integration - Quick-attach channel reduces setup time Market Application
Commercial Fisheries - Longline tuna and swordfish fleetsRecreational Fishing - Shark bycatch reduction for sport anglersConservation Programs - Bycatch mitigation in protected waters
Brochure
