US scientists turn to sharks for help with hurricane prediction
Summary
Scientists at the University of Delaware are attaching small electronic sensors to sharks off the US East Coast. These sensors collect data on ocean temperature, salt levels, and depth, which could help improve hurricane forecasts before storms reach land.Key Facts
- Researchers use CTD tags that measure water conductivity (related to salt levels), temperature, and depth.
- Sharks swim and dive while carrying these tags, sending data to satellites when they surface.
- The data focuses on the ocean’s upper mixed layer, which affects hurricane strength.
- Species tagged include shortfin mako sharks, blue sharks, smooth hammerheads, and juvenile great white sharks.
- Tagging happens offshore between 50 to 65 kilometers from the coast using baited lines.
- The tagging process takes under five minutes and follows animal care guidelines to reduce stress on sharks.
- Unlike past shark tracking that only monitored movement, this study collects ocean condition data for climate research.
- Scientists hope this method provides real-time ocean data to improve hurricane prediction models.
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