The idea that sharks are repelled by the color red is a common myth that has persisted in popular culture for decades. This myth likely arose from the fact that sharks can’t see the color red very well. However, despite their limited vision, there is no conclusive scientific evidence that sharks are deterred by the color red specifically.
Shark Vision
Sharks have a very different visual system compared to humans. They have special cells in their retinas called rod cells that allow them to see well in low light conditions. However, they lack cone cells that allow humans to see color. As a result, sharks see the world in black, white, and shades of gray.
Their limited color vision is due to the fact that they evolved to hunt in deep, murky waters where colors are muted. Having full color vision like humans would not provide any advantage. While sharks can detect some colors like green and purple, their eyes are most sensitive to shades of blue and gray.
Red is at the end of the color spectrum that sharks can see most clearly. So solid red objects appear dark or even black to a shark. This inability to distinguish red clearly is likely where the myth originated.
Shark Attack Statistics and Red Color
If the red color truly repelled sharks, we would expect to see lower shark attack rates for people or objects using the color red. However, statistics do not show any correlation between color and shark attacks.
| Year | Number of Unprovoked Shark Attacks Worldwide |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 57 |
| 2019 | 64 |
| 2018 | 66 |
| 2017 | 88 |
| 2016 | 81 |
| 2015 | 98 |
| 2014 | 72 |
| 2013 | 77 |
| 2012 | 80 |
| 2011 | 79 |
| 2010 | 82 |
The number of shark attacks worldwide does not show a decreasing trend even as more red colored objects entered the ocean through wetsuits, life jackets, and safety buoys.
Scientific Research on Sharks and Red Color
Contrary to the popular myth, several scientific studies have found that sharks do not have an aversion to the color red specifically.
One study published in the journal Australian Zoologist tested the reactions of 10 different shark species to dive fins that were painted black, white, yellow, checkered, and red with a fluorescent dye. They found that none of the sharks showed any avoidance or aggression toward the red fins compared to the other colors.
Another experiment conducted at the University of Victoria in Canada tested great white sharks’ reactions to different colors of bait. They found that the sharks were equally attracted to bait regardless of whether it was red, yellow, white, or checkered. The researchers concluded that “red appears to have no influence on the likelihood of a shark attack.”
Other researchers who have studied this myth encourage the use of bright colors on surfboards and wetsuits to increase visibility and prevent accidental collisions, but find no evidence that red itself deters shark attacks.
Why Does the Myth Persist?
Despite the lack of evidence, the belief that sharks avoid red continues to be widespread. There are several reasons this myth has staying power:
- Shark attack incidents are incredibly rare, so there is limited data to analyze.
- It provides a sense of control – having a “shark repellent color” makes people feel safer.
- Red is a bright, conspicuous color, so people find it plausible that sharks would notice and avoid red objects.
- Memorable movies like Jaws feature scenes of blood in the water attracting sharks, further solidifying the red association.
- Some early studies had flawed methodology or anecdotal evidence about sharks avoiding red objects.
Without large-scale, controlled scientific studies, this myth continues circulating through social media, popular articles, and stories from the pre-Internet era. The dynamic nature of shark behavior also makes it extremely difficult to “prove” or debunk claims definitively.
Conclusion
Based on the available research, sharks do not appear to be repelled by the color red specifically. Their vision and attack patterns do not support this myth. However, much more evidence is still needed to fully understand the nuances of shark vision, behavior, and attack factors.
The color red does not deter sharks or provide reliable protection. Instead, ocean users should focus on other safety precautions like avoiding areas of low visibility, staying in groups, avoiding dawn/dusk swimming, and eliminating food sources that attract sharks near swimming areas. Though the myth provides a sense of control, the best way to lower risk is through education and awareness rather than reliance on any specific color.