Ancient Predators: Sharks have patrolled the oceans for over 400 million years, predating even the dinosaurs!
Sharks possess a remarkable “sixth sense” known as electroreception. This unique ability allows them to detect the faint electrical fields generated by the muscle contractions of other animals, even those hidden beneath the sand.
Skeletons of Cartilage: Unlike bony fish, sharks have skeletons made of flexible cartilage, making them incredibly agile and lightweight.
Constant Swimmers: Many shark species need to keep swimming to force water over their gills for oxygen. If they stop, they could suffocate.
Toothy Conveyor Belt: Sharks can lose and replace thousands of teeth in their lifetime. Their teeth grow in rows, and as outer teeth wear down or fall out, new ones move forward to replace them.
Not All Big and Scary: Most shark species are smaller than humans, and some filter-feed on tiny plankton! The largest shark, the whale shark, is a gentle giant.
Slow to Mature: Many sharks take years to reach reproductive age and have relatively few pups, making them vulnerable to overfishing.
Diverse Habitats: Sharks inhabit oceans worldwide, from shallow coastal waters and coral reefs to the dark depths of the ocean and even some freshwater rivers.
Vital to the Ecosystem: Sharks are often apex predators, playing a crucial role in keeping marine ecosystems balanced and healthy.
More Than Their Reputation: Sharks are far more fascinating and complex than their portrayal as mindless killers. They deserve our respect and protection.
