The article dispels the myth that sharks pose a significant threat to undersea fiber optic cables, which are crucial for global internet connectivity. While sharks may nibble on cables out of curiosity during their exploration of the ocean floor, actual damage is rare and requires unlikely conditions, such as a cable being wrapped around a shark.
Instead, land-based threats like rats, which can damage cables with their constantly growing incisors, often go unacknowledged. The myth originated around 40 years ago with the TAT-8 cable, the first trans-Atlantic fiber optic system, symbolizing early advancements in instant communication technology.
Fiber optics, initially developed for telephone communications, revolutionized how information is transmitted across continents. The historical context emphasizes human involvement in maintaining this vital infrastructure. The article highlights the importance of recognizing the industry’s efforts, as many remain unaware of the substantial work behind the scenes that keeps global communication flowing smoothly.
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