Super Polyshark
WHAT IS SUPER POLYSHARK?
Super Polyshark is a novel device developed by Shark Defense Technologies LLC. It consists of a 7.5cm tall paper tube, in which sits a polymer containing time-released pellets. These are inserted into squid bait before being placed on longline hooks. When dissolved in water, these pellets release semiochemicals that deter sharks from the longlines, by producing an odour that sharks do not like.
Source: GearSmart
CURRENT RESEARCH & USE
According to the manufacturers, Super Polyshark is nontoxic and biodegradable, has achieved a 71% difference in shark bycatch between treated and control baits, with target catch rates remaining unchanged over a four hour window. No further research has evidenced these claims.
This page was last updated on 12.02.21.
Interested in how this and other measures could mitigate bycatch in your fishery? Get in touch with us to collaborate or take part in a study.