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)
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 (2011)
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)
The use of acoustic startle technology for mammals is patented by Thomas Götz and Vincent M Janik.
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)
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)
Further TAST applications are explored to deter otariids. When implemented in a longline fishery, it reduced foraging behavior around target vessels.
Schakner et al. (2017)
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.
Startle reflex explored in toothed whales and dolphins. Research showed that by using a different signal, these species react with similar aversive behavior as seen in pinnipeds.
Further study in handline and gillnet fishery applications for pinniped predation. Research showed a 97% decrease in predation, increased fishing time as a result of fewer seal disruptions, and a 74% increase in catch.
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)
Lessons are learned about launching effective TAST deployments in riverine systems.
As the conservation potential of TAST in the Pacific Northwest is realized, GenusWave begins to network with other NGOs and government agencies to see where this technology may have the most positive impact.
