30 April: Expedition to Ningaloo - Tiger shark studies aid conservation and human safety

Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) researchers have tagged and taken blood samples from more than 12 sharks from waters near Ningaloo reef to understand tiger shark migration better along the coast of Western Australia.

"Our research into tiger shark migrations will benefit humans too, as it will help us adjust our behaviours to minimise the risk of interactions with these animals," said AIMS scientist, Dr Mark Meekan.

"The data and information that we provide will deliver the best possible scientific evidence for people to better make decisions about safety in the water," he explained.

Dr Meekan has been on board the MV Ocearch, which travels the world examining sharks. The team is also set to travel to the Abrolhos Islands, Geraldton and Jurien Bay to further study the sharks.

"It's fascinating, we have a lot of information about white sharks and their migratory habits but we do not understand nearly as well, how tiger sharks migrate nor much about their behaviour. This expedition is really going to reveal some new information about what they're doing and most importantly, where they're going," Dr Meekan concluded.

Next week: how the science of tiger sharks can benefit people and other species.