Shark vessel offers chance to learn about science behind it

BRUNSWICK, Ga. (AP) – A high-tech shark research vessel is giving Georgians a chance to learn more about the science behind it while it winters in Brunswick.

The Brunswick News reports  that several dozen people toured the M/V OCEARCH during recent public tours last week.

Deckhand D.J. Lettieri said the vessel gives scientists unique access to great white sharks, which are lifted onto the boat for testing and then released.

The crew places a tube with running water in the shark’s mouth so it can breathe while onboard, and a towel over its eyes to keep it calm.

The Brunswick newspaper reports that researchers take 10 to 12 samples from any given shark, including blood, muscle tissue, parasites and sperm from males. A GPS tracker gets attached to the dorsal fin as well.

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