Sharkbanz Releases New Testing Data and Video Footage Demonstrating Effectiveness of Product Line in Deterring Bull Sharks

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Jun 27, 2018, 10:00 ET

CHARLESTON, S.C., June 27, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Sharkbanz (Mano LLC), the affordable, wearable shark deterrent has released new testing data and video footage demonstrating the effectiveness of the band in deterring Bull Sharks — the greatest shark threat to beachgoers globally. The Sharkbanz team performed this video documented test in the Bahamas using a baited dummy amongst 5-15 Bull Sharks to create a worst-case scenario environment. Full results of the trials and video can be found on Sharkbanz.com/pages/research.

The Sharkbanz Team, in association with Discovery Canada and Sharkdefense Technologies, LLC., conducted a comparative study with Sharkbanz products on wild bull sharks in Bimini, Bahamas. The bull shark is responsible for a substantial number of attacks in the USA and globally. The team’s goal was to test the hypothesis that Sharkbanz technology creates an effective barrier and deterrent, thus reducing bull shark attacks even under the most extreme test scenarios.

Co-founder Nathan Garrison states, "Ever since my close friend was attacked by a Bull Shark in Charleston, SC, I've dreamed of providing people an effective, affordable, simple device they can use to reduce the risk. This data proves we've accomplished that goal."

Bull Sharks, one of the most common predatory shark species, can be found worldwide and are responsible for the highest number of human attacks. The majority of these attacks occur in the United States— specifically Florida.

Sharkbanz, in association with Discovery Canada, recorded over 1,200 Bull Shark interactions in this recent comparative study. During all of these interactions, the baited dummy was never attacked while wearing Sharkbanz products. Without the Sharkbanz deterrents, the dummy was attacked every 42 seconds on average. Sharks were 85% more likely to display avoidance behavior when baited dummies were wearing Sharkbanz than without.

During the final and most extreme trial, the dummy was baited on all four limbs and placed in the middle of a Bull Shark feeding frenzy wearing two Sharkbanz. After 14 minutes in the water, the baited dummy experienced 266 direct interactions with adult sharks but was not attacked once. After removing the Sharkbanz, the same dummy was attacked the moment it entered the water. Highlights are available for viewing on Sharkbanz.com/pages/research.

Sharkbanz is committed to reducing the risk of shark encounters using patented magnetic deterrent technology, which creates a strong electromagnetic field that interferes with a shark's electrical sensors. This interference, though not harmful to the shark or any other marine life, is highly unpleasant and can cause inquisitive sharks to turn away— a similar sensation to that of a person having a bright light flashed in his or her eyes in a dark room.

The results of this Bull Shark research will be submitted for independent, scientific peer-review. Furthermore, the Sharkbanz team will conduct a study later this year in conjunction with a shark research group to further measure and validate the technology's effectiveness.

Sharkbanz magnetic technology will reduce risk of shark interactions, but there is no 100% guarantee that interactions will not take place.

About Sharkbanz:
Based in Charleston, SC, Sharkbanz use patented magnetic technology to interfere with sharks' sensitive electroreceptors. Created by surfers and divers and tested by marine biologists on predatory shark species, Sharkbanz magnetic technology does not harm sharks or other sea creatures, uses no batteries, requires no charging and is designed to endure the most rigorous water sports. Learn more: sharkbanz.com.

SOURCE Sharkbanz