The shark is one of the most fascinating creatures of the ocean. They have been living on Earth for more than 400 million years, as long as before dinosaurs exists. They come in many shapes and sizes, from the tiny dwarf lantern shark that fits in your hand to the giant whale shark that can grow longer than a bus. Sharks play an important role in keeping the ocean healthy by controlling fish populations and balancing marine life. There are about 500 species of sharks are exists and most shark species are harmless to humans. Their sharp senses, especially smell and movement detection, make them skilled hunters. Sadly, millions of sharks are killed every year due to overfishing and for organ trade, putting many species at risk. Protecting sharks is not just about saving one animal, it’s about keeping the whole ocean alive and balanced.
Here are the 11 Shark Facts That May Surprise You
1. Ancient Creatures: Sharks exists for more than 400 million years, even before dinosaurs roamed the Earth.
2. Types: There are over 500 species of sharks are found, ranging from the tiny dwarf lantern shark to the giant whale shark.
3. Great Swimmers: Sharks are excellent swimmers and can reach speeds of up to 60 miles per hour in short bursts.
4. Sharks Have Many Teeth: Sharks can have between 5 to 15 rows of teeth at a time, and they lose and grow new ones constantly. Sharks can grow over 30,000 teeth in their lifetime!
5. Sharks don’t have bones: Their skeletons are made of cartilage, which is the same stuff like nose and ears are made of.
6. Sixth Sense: Sharks can sense electrical signals in the water, helping them detect their target.
7. Sharks Eat Meat: While many sharks are carnivores, some, like the whale shark, are filter feeders that eat plankton and small fish.
8. Shark Eyes Can Move: Some sharks, like the hammerhead, can move their eyes independently, which helps them a wider field of vision.
9. Sharks Can Live a Long Time: The Greenland Shark can live for over 400 years and they are one of the longest-living animals on Earth.
10. Not All Sharks Are Dangerous: In about 500 species of sharks, only 30 species are known to attack humans and most shark species are harmless and friendly with humans.
11. Sharks are cold-blooded : Most sharks’ body temperature matches that of the water they swim in. However, great white sharks are an exception as they are partially warm-blooded, which helps them swim faster and more efficiently when hunting prey.
Here are some of well-known international organizations working to protect and save sharks :
Shark Trust – A UK-based charity dedicated to shark conservation worldwide through science, policy, and education.
WildAid – Works internationally to reduce demand for shark fin soup and other wildlife products.
World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) – Works in several countries to push for shark conservation policies and sustainable practices.
Sea Shepherd Conservation Society – Actively defends sharks by patrolling against illegal fishing and finning practices.
