Dr. Hastings’ Personal Notes
Private Journal Entry 132-B

It’s a popular misconception that sharks sense fear. In truth, their natural abilities are far more impressive, making them one of the most efficient predatory creatures on the face of the Earth.

Instead of “sensing” fear, sharks can detect the electric fields that are emitted by other living creatures. In turn, they can distinguish their prey’s heartbeat and muscle movement. Studies have shown that sharks behave differently—and somewhat more erratically—around divers with rapid heartbeats. In this respect, one might claim that a shark has a type of “fear-sense” only not in the way it is often imagined in sensationalistic popular culture.

A shark’s hearing is also remarkably acute and can pick up sounds inaudible to the human ear. Aside from being able to detect vibrations and changes in water pressure, their sense of smell is so keen that they can distinguish a few molecules of blood from remarkable distances. Another common myth is that a shark has poor eyesight—a supposed “fact” that has long since been proven false. Sharks have duplex retinas, allowing them to see in both light and dark areas (they can see in dark and murky water up to ten times greater than a human could in clear water).

All of these abilities are sure to be beneficial for Subject 37.

–Beverly Hastings

Danger Zone One. Story by Midnight. Art by Salaiix.