10 Cool Facts About Sharks

Sharks
The ocean covers 71 percent of the Earth's surface, and 50-80 percent of all life is found in its depths. So far scientists estimate that humans have explored about 10% of the worlds ocean habitat, and discovered more than 228,000 distinct species there. It's estimated that as many as 2 million more species exist in the ocean depths, yet to be discovered by humans.
Among the species we have discovered, there is one fish that is truly ancient, often misunderstood, and as beautiful and diverse a species as any other on the planet.
Sharks.
Sharks come in all shapes and sizes and inhabit all of the worlds oceans, as well as many freshwater environments.
Though Sharks are an incredibly diverse species, most people think of the most dangerous species first, such as Great whites, Tiger Sharks, or Bull Sharks. They are the species that attack humans the most. Certainly the thought of a shark, silently hunting you as you swim at the surface is enough to inspire fear in most people, and that's enough to keep these species top of mind when talking about sharks.
Many horror movies have capitalized on this idea to sensationalize the concept of murderous sharks, lurking beneath the depths. This reinforces our image of Sharks as dangerous predators that regularly attack humans.
While shark attacks capture significant attention due to their sensational nature, The truth is that unprovoked shark attacks on humans are fairly rare.
According to the International Shark Attack File (ISAF), which is maintained by the Florida Museum of Natural History, there were an average of around 82 unprovoked shark attacks worldwide each year between 2011 and 2020. And, there was an average of 7.1 fatalties resulting from these attacks each year in the same period. This is very low when considering the amount people who routinely intrude on sharks territory during recreational water activites, such as swimming, surfing, or kayaking.
True, sharks are dangerous, and they do kill people every year. But The vast majority of shark species are harmless to humans and do not pose a threat. Most sharks are not interested in attacking humans and would rather avoid contact. And Even the most dangerous species pose almost zero risk as long as you don't enter their habitat.
Almost all Shark attacks are often the result of mistaken identity, such as the shark thinking their victim is a prey animal, simple curiosity, like the shark wondering what their victim is and nipping them to try to find out, or territorial behavior. Some species of Sharks can be extremely territorial and will resort to violence to defend their territory.

Shark Research Institute (SRI): SRI is a non-profit organization dedicated to shark research, conservation, and education. They conduct and support scientific research, promote shark conservation policies, and raise public awareness through educational programs.

Ocearch: Ocearch is a collaborative research organization that focuses on the tracking and study of various marine species, including sharks. They use satellite tagging to monitor the movements and behaviors of sharks, providing valuable data for scientific research and conservation efforts.

The Shark Trust: The Shark Trust is a UK-based charity that works to advance the worldwide conservation of sharks through science, education, influence, and action. They engage in research initiatives, advocacy, and educational programs.

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium: Located in Florida, Mote Marine Laboratory conducts shark research and conservation projects. They study various aspects of shark biology, behavior, and ecology, contributing to the understanding and conservation of these marine animals.

Australian Marine Conservation Society (AMCS): AMCS is an Australian organization focused on marine conservation, including shark conservation. They work to protect Australia's oceans and marine life through research, advocacy, and public engagement.

Pelagios Kakunja: This organization focuses on the conservation of marine life, with an emphasis on shark research and protection. They conduct research and support conservation initiatives, particularly in regions with high shark biodiversity.

Shark Advocates International: This organization works on global shark conservation policies, aiming to promote science-based management and conservation of sharks and rays. They collaborate with policymakers, scientists, and other stakeholders.