Media release

From: The Royal Society

Evidence of active sound production by a shark

Royal Society Open Science

This study showed that the rig, Mustelus lenticulatus, produces broadband clicks when handled underwater, representing the first documented case of active sound production by a shark. The relatively high peak frequencies (2.4-18.5 kHz) and short duration (⁓48ms) of the sounds, as well as the rig’s plated teeth morphology suggest that forceful snapping of the teeth is the likely sound producing mechanism, but further studies are necessary to confirm this hypothesis. Our observations suggests that rigs produce these sounds in response to disturbance or distress. Future behavioural studies are warranted as address as to whether clicks represent a biological meaningful signal.