WA’s shark monitoring network gets new technology.
The Department Of Fisheries have tagged and are currently monitoring 326 sharks.
The number includes 136 White Sharks, 171 Whaler Sharks and 19 Tiger Sharks.
Acoustic transmitters were placed in each shark’s stomach by scientists in a quick procedure.
The system will send out alerts within two minutes if a shark is detected by the network.
“These upgrades means this summer, response agencies will have even more time to close a beach and alert water users of potential shrk hazards, with alerts from receivers being sent faster,” Mr. Buswell said.
Principal research scientist, Dr Rory McAuley said acoustic tags can last up to 10 years.
“These detections and WA’s extensive receiver network are contributing to important research to help the Government to better understand the movements of white sharks through WA waters as well as playing a major public safety role,” Dr McAuley said.
Perth’s shark monitoring Network stretches from Ocean Reef in the north to Warnbro Sound in the south.
The network also covers parts of WA’s South West and the South Coast.
Please click on the link below to watch the video version of the story.
EVENING NEWS PERTH – New Technology For Shark Monitoring (First story in the bulletin)
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WA Fisheries Minister Troy Buswell (right) and Dr Rory McAuley (left).
