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Sharks have receptors that are sensitive to electric fields.
These receptors are called ampullae of Lorenzini. The ampullae are canals filled with a kind of jelly on the shark’s head that are able to receive electric stimuli through the skin of the shark. The shark is able to ‘read’ minute changes in electric current in its environment through the ampullae. This is a sense every bit as developed and important to the shark as sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste.
How does the shark use its electro-reception? When a fish or some other prey moves its muscles, there is a slight change in electric current. A fish that is wounded and struggling will produce a different amount of electricity. Sharks are able to sense this weak change in current through the water even before they might otherwise see or smell them, and before their prey can see the shark.
All shark species use this electroreception ability to locate prey. Some species that enjoy bottom-dwelling fish or mollusks that bury themselves in the sand are able to locate these animals with their electro-sense.
Sharks also use their electro-sensors to help navigate the oceans. They are able to induce an electric current by their own movement across the earths electromagnetic fields, and this helps them to determine and stay on course.
Apparently, the US Navy is impressed with this ability of sharks, and wants to develop similar technology. Sources:
Elasmoworld
Electroreception in Elasmobranches , Faramarz Samie
Navy Wants Sharks' Electric Sensors, DefenceTech Next Fast Shark Fact
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