Shark Week starts; here are some interesting facts about sharks that may surprise you

1. Sharks, one of the oldest vertebrate species on Earth, have been present in the world’s oceans for around 450 million years.
2. There is a remarkable diversity among sharks, with over 500 known species, ranging from the dwarf lantern shark, measuring around 7 inches, to the colossal whale shark, reaching up to 40 feet or more in length.
3. Sharks possess cartilaginous skeletons, making them lighter and more flexible than bone-based creatures.
4. Their extraordinary sense of smell allows some shark species to detect a tiny drop of blood in the water from considerable distances. Additionally, sharks have excellent vision, especially in low-light conditions.
5. Sharks use special organs called ampullae of Lorenzini to detect electromagnetic fields produced by other living organisms, aiding them in finding prey and navigating their surroundings.
6. Most sharks need to swim continuously to breathe, as water passing over their gills facilitates oxygen extraction.
7. Lifespan varies among shark species, with some living several decades and others having shorter lifespans.
8. As apex predators, sharks play a vital role in preserving marine ecosystem balance by controlling the populations of other marine species.
9. Sharks have multiple rows of teeth, continually losing and replacing thousands of teeth during their lifetime to maintain sharp and functional teeth for hunting.
10. Shark reproduction methods differ among species, with some laying eggs, others giving birth to live young, and some producing eggs that hatch internally before giving birth to live pups.
11. While a few species, like the great white and tiger sharks, are known for occasional attacks on humans, the majority of sharks are harmless and rarely interact with humans.
12. Sharks face various threats, such as overfishing, habitat destruction, and accidental bycatch, leading to vulnerable or endangered status for many species.
13. Some shark species display social behaviors and form loose groups, but they generally prefer a solitary lifestyle.
14. Sharks exhibit impressive migratory patterns, traveling thousands of miles in search of food and suitable breeding grounds.

It’s essential to acknowledge the significance of sharks in maintaining marine ecosystem health and work towards protecting these majestic creatures for a balanced ocean ecosystem.