RESEARCH AND MILESTONES

We're leading the way in sound technology for the ocean and beyond. Explore some of our research projects and milestones.

  • 2010
    RESEARCH PAPER
    Aversiveness of Sounds in Phocid Seals: Psycho-physiological factors, Learning processes and motivation

    TAST began through research by world-renowned scientists, Thomas Götz, Vincent M Janik, at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, UK. Many years of trial and error uncovered new applications for the little studied auditory “startle reflex” in marine mammals.

    Götz & Janik (2010)

  • 2011
    RESEARCH PAPER
    Repeated elicitation of the acoustic startle reflex leads to sensitization in subsequent avoidance behavior and induces fear conditioning

    Many years of study uncovered new applications for the little-studied auditory “startle reflex” in marine mammals, which caused sensitization in seals and caused them to avoid known food sources in favor of staying away from the sound.

    Götz & Janik (2010)

  • 2013
    RESEARCH PAPER
    Acoustic deterrent devices to prevent pinniped depredation: Efficiency, conservation, and possible solutions

    TAST was recognized as an alternative to conventional ADDs that solved many of the problems with this original technology, including habituation, noise pollution, and hearing damage to target species.

    Götz & Janik (2013)

  • 2014
    PATENT

    The use of acoustic startle technology for mammals is patented by Thomas Götz and Vincent M Janik.

  • 2015
    RESEARCH PAPER
    Target specific acoustic predator deterrence in the marine environment

    Further research with TAST finds that the target startle response can be highly specific depending on signal frequency and target species hearing sensitivity. Scientists were able to selectively deter seals without affecting harbor porpoises also in the study area.

    Götz & Janik (2015)

  • 2016
    RESEACH PAPER
    Non-lethal management of carnivore predation: long-term tests

    TAST is explored as a way to protect prey from predators. When implemented on an aquaculture facility, it showed reductions in seal predation by over 90%.

    Götz & Janik (2016)

  • 2020
    PARTNER REPORT
    Migrating Upriver

    Onsite research at Ballard Locks and Whatcom Creek. Applications explored for predation reduction on endangered salmonids in the Pacific Northwest. Studies saw 45-77% reductions in predations when carefully implemented at pinch points to migration.

    Williams et al. (2020)

  • 2021
    RESEARCH PAPER
    Behavioural reactions of harbour porpoises to startle-eliciting stimuli: movement responses and practical applications

    Startle reflex is explored in harbour porpoise. Research showed that by using a different signal, these species react with similar aversive behavior as seen in pinnipeds.

    Hiley, Janik, & Götz (2021)

  • 2021
    PARTNER REPORT
    Riverine Research

    Lessons are learned about launching effective TAST deployments in riverine systems.

    Williams et al. (2021)

  • 2023
    RESEARCH PAPER
    Assessing the deterrence effect of target-specific acoustic startle technology on killer whales and humpback whales during interactions with Norwegian purse seine herring fishery

    Startle reflex is explored in orcas and humpback whales. Research showed that by using a different signal, killer whales react with similar aversive behavior as seen in pinnipeds. More research is needed to assess humpback whale response.

    Langstein (2023)

  • 2024
    RESEARCH PAPER
    The effect of a startle-eliciting device on the foraging success of individual harbor seals

    This study examined predation of individual seals on endangered salmonids. Researchers modeled a 43.8% reduction in overall foraging success when TAST was in use.

    McKeegan et al. (2024)

<h2>We’re a <strong>value driven </strong>organization</h2>

We’re a value driven organization

GenusWave is a science-based technology company driven by a deep respect for nature. This underlies all we do and guides the development of our signature products: unique systems that keep wild animals away from vital human activity — keeping animals safe and people productive. In achieving this goal, we provide benefits for the humans of today and the planet of tomorrow:

Our Five Core Values:

1.Harness science to solve human problems.

2.Support the planet's fragile environment in all we do.

3.Develop solutions that create jobs and build communities.

4.Draw inspiration from both natural wonders and scientific ingenuity.

5.Reconcile the needs of people and animals.

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