Elasmobranchs (sharks, skates, and rays) have a unique adaptation enabling the detection of minute electric fields. In seawater, magnets work through electromagnetic induction, creating an electric field that is orders of magnitude greater than that produced by a sharks prey. This study will test the effectiveness of magnets in repelling elasmobranches from longlines and other apparatus at different locations. The first part of this study, will examine the effects of magnets on the southern stingray and the nurse shark. In Winyah Bay/North Inlet, S.C., site of a five year longline study magnets will be deployed on a baited longline to see if elasmobranch bycatch can be reduced. If elasmbranchs are repelled from the apparatus in these experiments, our results could then be applied to a new longline fishing strategy that can selectively repel elasmobranchs from baited hooks. Also, these data may elucidate behavioral responses of sharks to magnets, which could be used to design a selective shark exclusion barrier on human populated beaches.

My research would make the students aware of the degradation of the marine ecosystem and help them develop ideas that could aid in the rejuvenation of the marine and coastal environments. Students will learn the value of scientific analysis at a very young age and that scientific research is a useful and accurate tool pertaining to a wide variety of organismal and environmental issues. My research covers many fields of science: Physical Science (how magnets create electric fields); physiology (fish adaptations); ecology (fish behavior); chemistry (liquid shark repellents); and biology. I can introduce some of the problems with our marine ecosystems, and through the use of inquiry based instruction, I can allow the students to participate and come up with their own ideas on how they can help the marine environment.