Bite‑resistant wetsuits reduce shark‑bite trauma
Researchers at Flinders University in Adelaide tested four bite‑resistant wetsuit materials (Aqua Armour, Shark Stop, ActionTX‑S and Brewster) by exposing them to bites from tiger and white sharks at Neptune Island Group Marine Park and found all four reduced substantial and critical damage compared with standard neoprene. Published this week in the journal Wildlife Research, the study’s authors and a U.S. expert say the materials—used strategically over major arteries—could cut blood loss after attacks and buy time for victims to reach medical care.
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Scientists test bite-resistant wetsuits that could reduce shark attack damage
New information:
- Study by Flinders University (Southern Shark Ecology Group) tested four materials: Aqua Armour, Shark Stop, ActionTX‑S and Brewster.
- Tests involved bites from large white and tiger sharks (tested on sharks up to ~3 metres) at Neptune Island Group Marine Park, Australia.
- Published in the journal Wildlife Research this week; U.S. expert Nick Whitney (New England Aquarium) commented that most fatal shark bites result from blood loss and the materials could buy time for rescue/medical aid.