Death Metal Songs Used To Attract Wild Sharks
It’s well-documented that music has an effect on humans; even if it didn’t, it’s still an art form that virtually everyone on the planet enjoys. Being able to appreciate art is, arguably, a part of what separates humans from animals. That won’t stop them from trying to close the gap, though — because as it turns out, some animals can be just as receptive towards a good tune.
They may not have conventional ears, but sharks can still act and react to sound; they pick up noises and vibrations thanks to the receptors on their bodies. It’s a biological process that can be exploited by low-frequency sounds — like the heavy tones of a death metal track, for example. By blasting the music through a submerged speaker, a Discovery Channel film crew managed to attract several great white sharks in one shot.
The current theory is that death metal — or any music with similar qualities — appeals to sharks because of what they represent: the sound of struggling fish. If the technique sees widespread use, then it’s believed that it could have extra benefits; there would be no more need for chum, which would keep sharks’ behavior and environments from being distorted. In turn, it could help keep them in their territories — and notably, away from any innocent swimmers. Apparently, all it takes to succeed is giving sharks the chance to rock out.
