What colors should you not wear in the ocean?

When it comes to safety in the ocean, one factor that is often overlooked is the role that clothing can play. While it may seem like a minor detail, the colors that you choose to wear while diving or swimming in the ocean can actually have an impact on your safety, particularly when it comes to shark attacks. In this article, we will explore the science behind why certain colors may be more attractive to sharks and provide some tips on what colors you should not wear in the ocean to reduce your risk of a shark encounter.

Are shark really dangerous for divers—do you need to be concerned? 

It is difficult to determine the exact number of shark attacks on divers per year, as these incidents are often not reported or are misidentified as something else. However, according to the International Shark Attack File (ISAF), a database maintained by the University of Florida, there were a total of 64 unprovoked shark attacks on divers worldwide in 2020.

It’s indispensable to note that the number of shark attacks on divers represents a small fraction of the overall number of shark attacks that occur each year, as most attacks involve swimmers, surfers, and other beach goers. Additionally, the number of shark attacks on divers has remained relatively stable over the past decade, with an average of 64 attacks per year from 2011 to 2020.

Are sharks attracted by colors?

First, let’s address the question whether or not sharks can even see colors. The answer is a bit complicated. The shark’s eyes have specialized cells called chromatophores that allow them to detect light and dark, but they do not have the same type of color-sensitive cones that humans have.

This means that they are not capable of seeing the full range of colors that we can. However, they are thought to be able to distinguish between different wavelengths of light, which can allow them to perceive certain colors as being brighter or darker than others.

What colors attract sharks?

So, if sharks aren’t able to see colors in the same way that we do, what makes certain colors more attractive to them? One theory is that sharks are attracted to contrasts, and that bright or fluorescent colors can stand out more vividly against the ocean’s blue and green tones.

For example, a bright yellow or orange dive suit might be more visible to a shark than a darker color like black or blue. However, it’s important to note that this theory is still being researched and is not fully understood.

Despite the limited research on the subject, there are some colors that have been shown to be more attractive to sharks in certain circumstances. For example, in a study published in the journal “Animal Behaviour,” researchers found that lemon sharks were more attracted to divers wearing yellow and white dive suits than those wearing grey or black suits.

Similarly, in a separate study published in the journal “Marine Biology,” researchers found that bull sharks were more likely to approach bait that was colored red or yellow than bait that was blue or white. These findings suggest that bright, contrasting colors may be more attractive to sharks, but more research is needed to confirm this.

Your ideal safety diving equipment 

While it’s not clear exactly why certain colors may be more attractive to sharks, it’s important to consider what you wear when you’re in the ocean to reduce your risk of a shark encounter. Here are a few tips on what colors to avoid:

1. Bright colors: As mentioned, bright or fluorescent colors may be more attractive to sharks due to their high contrast. If you’re diving or swimming in an area where sharks are present, it’s best to avoid wearing clothing that is excessively bright or fluorescent.
2. Shiny or reflective materials: Sharks are also thought to be attracted to shiny or reflective surfaces, as they may resemble the scales of their prey. Avoid wearing clothing made of metallic materials or anything with a high shine.
3. Camouflage patterns: While camouflage patterns may seem like a good way to blend in with your surroundings, they can actually be more confusing to sharks. Sharks rely on contrast and patterns to identify their prey, and camouflage patterns may make it harder for them to distinguish between a person and their surroundings.

It’s worth noting that while the above tips can help reduce your risk of a shark encounter, they are by no means a guarantee of safety. Sharks are complex and highly adaptive animals, and there is still much that we don’t know about their behavior and senses. 

Other things that might attract sharks

There are a few things, odors, and colors that are thought to attract sharks in the water. One of the most well-known is the smell of blood. Sharks have a keen sense of smell and can detect even small amounts of blood in the water from a distance. This is why it’s important to avoid bleeding while in the water and to remove any cuts or wounds before entering the ocean. Women who are on their period might lose menstrual blood and should therefore also avoid during this time to go out diving. 

Other odors that may attract sharks include the smell of fish, which can be emitted by certain types of sunscreen or other toiletries, and the smell of certain types of bait or chum used by fishermen. In terms of colors, as mentioned previously, bright or fluorescent colors and shiny or reflective surfaces may be more attractive to sharks due to their high contrast. It’s worth noting, however, that more research is needed to fully understand why certain odors and colors may be more attractive to sharks.

Are safety diving equipment different when you go snorkeling?

Safety diving equipment is generally not different when you go snorkeling, but there are a few pieces of equipment that are commonly used specifically for snorkeling. Here are some common pieces of equipment that are used for snorkeling:

1. Mask: A mask is used to allow you to see clearly underwater. When selecting a mask, make sure it fits snugly on your face and doesn’t leak.
2. Snorkel: A snorkel is a tube that allows you to breathe while your face is in the water. Make sure the snorkel is the right size for your face and has a proper seal.
3. Fins: Fins are used to help you swim more efficiently and can be either full foot or open heel. Choose fins that fit comfortably and are the right size for your feet.
4. Wetsuit or Rash Guard: A wetsuit or rash guard is used to protect your skin from the sun and can also provide some warmth in cooler water. Make sure the wetsuit or rash guard fits properly and allows for a full range of motion.
5. Dive Flag: If you are snorkeling in an area where there are boats, it is important to have a dive flag to alert other water users that you are in the area. The dive flag should be brightly colored and easy to spot.

It’s important to note that while these pieces of equipment are commonly used for snorkeling, they are not necessarily required. Always follow local regulations and use common sense when determining what safety equipment to use.

What are sharks afraid of, or what colors make you feel completely incognito underwater?

It’s difficult to say exactly what makes sharks afraid, as each species of shark has its own unique behaviors and responses to potential threats. Most sharks are apex predators and are not easily intimidated by other animals. However, they do have a few natural predators, including killer whales and larger species of sharks.

As far as colors go, it is not clear if any particular color would make a person completely “invisible” to sharks underwater. Some research suggests that sharks may be less attracted to certain “sea life colors”, such as blue or gray, due to their lower contrast in the ocean environment. However, it’s important to note that this is still an area of active research and more studies are needed to confirm these findings. Ultimately, the best way to reduce your risk of a shark encounter is to be aware of your surroundings, follow safe diving practices, and avoid acting aggressively towards sharks.

Conclusion: The colors that you choose to wear while diving can potentially impact your safety 

While it is still not fully understood why certain colors may be more attractive to sharks, some research suggests that bright, contrasting colors and shiny or reflective materials may be more likely to draw the attention of sharks. To reduce the risk of a shark encounter, it is recommended to avoid wearing bright colors, shiny or reflective materials, and camouflage patterns while in the ocean. It is also important to note that the number of shark attacks on divers is relatively low and can be further minimized by following safe diving practices and staying aware of your surroundings.