Aquarium sharks are trained to eat from specific colored targets to ensure safety and proper nutrition.

Target training is a standard practice in modern facilities like the Georgia Aquarium and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. This method utilizes operant conditioning, a behavioral concept popularized by B.F. Skinner in the mid-20th century. By rewarding a specific behavior with food, trainers can manage large apex predators without physical restraint or stress. This is crucial because different species have varying metabolic needs and social hierarchies that could lead to injury during a feeding frenzy.Research published in journals such as 'Animal Cognition' demonstrates that sharks possess high levels of intelligence and long-term memory. Studies have shown that some shark species can remember specific tasks or associations for up to a year without reinforcement. In a controlled aquarium setting, this cognitive ability allows staff to use 'stationing,' where each animal learns to swim to a designated spot based on visual cues like a red circle or a yellow square.This precision feeding is vital for administering healthcare. Many aquarium sharks require specialized supplements, such as Vitamin B1 (thiamine), to counteract the enzymes found in frozen fish that can lead to neurological issues. By using target poles, biologists can ensure the correct individual receives the medicated fish rather than a more aggressive tank mate. This structured approach has significantly reduced the number of accidental bites during maintenance dives over the last two decades.