Not so fast, shark-hater. These ancient predators, which predate dinosaurs, are essential to ocean health, keeping coral reefs clean as well as balancing populations of other marine animals. If they go extinct (a possibility with certain species!), there will be ripples throughout the food chain that will affect every single one of us.
Surprised? Yup, it’s true. These are the facts you learn when you’re fascinated with sharks, as I have been since I was a young girl. I cannot explain why exactly other than I find them transfixing. What I can tell you is that my passion to protect them is fueled by the “who cares” attitude of the general public when the world has slaughtered 90% of shark populations. Think about that. Ninety percent! It’s staggering. That this ever occurred and that the media/entertainment industries still insist on demonizing them and sensationalizing each encounter with humans is crazy.
With that, I ask you to please enjoy Shark Week with a newfound respect and appreciation for sharks.