The Truth About Sharks
Dive in to investigate the biology and ecology of sharks, dispelling misconceptions that lead many people to fear these important predators.
When you think of a shark, what images come to mind?
What distinctive features do they have, sharp teeth, a streamlined body, fins?
There are hundreds of different species of sharks. Although we can describe these diverse group of fishes in many different ways, sharks all have common characteristics – which is what makes a shark a shark. Sharks live in oceans all over the world and some even journey into fresh water.
Explore sharks, from their biology and behavior to misconceptions and the impact that we have on sharks, and ultimately how this affects the ocean ecosystem.
The Truth About Sharks will help you understand that:
- The relationship between sharks and humans is complex because it involves fear and misconceptions. Education about sharks can help foster a more balanced understanding.
- Sharks are fish. They have specific characteristics, including well-developed sensory systems, that define them.
- Sharks live across the globe and play an important role in the ocean ecosystem.
- The history of sharks began approximately 400 million years ago and continues through present day.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mikki McComb-Kobza, is the Director and Chief Scientist of Ocean First Institute, an ocean conservation nonprofit organization that conducts impactful species conservation projects coupled with educational initiatives. She is the President of the American Elasmobranch Society which promotes the study of sharks, skates, rays and chimeras. She is faculty at CU Boulder’s Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and is a National Fellow of the Explorer’s Club. She is an applied conservation biologist with over 20 years of experience researching endangered species and advancing marine ecosystem restoration.
Her primary research focuses upon the biology, behavior, abundance, and movement of sharks using novel methodologies. She uses multiple strategies to advance science-based conservation initiatives across disciplines. She has led and participated in over 50 marine research expeditions, including regions of Australia, Africa, Brazil, China, Nova Scotia, Belize, the Caribbean, and the eastern coast of the United States.
Her research has been broadcast by the BBC, National Public Radio, the National Geographic Society, Discovery Channel Shark Week, and CBC National Radio Canada.
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