Sharks - Mysterious, Magnificent & Misunderstood By Dayle Calleja

The truth about sharks Sharks are amazing fish that have been around long before the dinosaurs existed. They live in waters all over the world, in every ocean and even in some river and lakes. Unlike other fish, Sharks have no bones

There are about 425 different species of sharks which are divided into 30 families. There are many different species of sharks that range in size from 10cm to over 10 meters.

Important facts: We do not form part of the sharks diet, although such incidents happen, normally it is only because the sharks was provoked or a case of mistaken identity.

Whilst it is true some sharks have been known to attack humans, it is not true that all sharks are dangerous. Out of over 425 different types of sharks, only 3 are considered a treat to humans.

Why we need sharks Sharks play an important role in the marine ecosystem. They help keep the oceans clean by eating sick and weak creatures, and also keep a balance by feeding on other animals that would otherwise over populate our seas. Unfortunately , sharks take long to reach maturity and only a few young are born each year. This makes the fight for their survival more crucial.

ENDANGERED AND PROTECTED SPECIES. Millions of Sharks are being killed every year, just for their fins. Sharks are caught and have their fins and tails cut off and then thrown back alive into the water.

Without the fins and tail, the shark cannot swim and it will either be attacked by other sharks, or slowly sink to the bottom of the sea and die a long, slow, painful death.

Sharks bad reputation: Sharks have acquired through films like “JAWS” a very bad reputation. Nonetheless through several efforts from different environmental organizations, modern research and quality documentaries, sharks are now beginning to gain the respect that they really deserve.

Organizations work: SHARK ALLIANCE is a huge organization that works for conservation of sharks within the EU. They have done a lot of work, and each year they also have the European Shark Week in October.

For the last few years, the alliance has worked within the EU to try to get better regulations for sharks. Last year, the European Shark Action Plan was published. This plan has stricter fishing limits and also aims at stopping shark fining.

Sadly, so far, none of the EU countries have adopted this plan of action, and THE ORGANISATION, MY AND YOUR mission this year is to see that it is done.

Important to note: That the Great White Shark and the Basking Shark are now listed as protected species in Malta.

Click on the next slide for a short video about SHARKS

Who is the HUNTER??? SHARK or MANKIND