Sharks… just the word may evoke fear in some. The reality is that one is more likely to be hit by lightning than be attacked by a shark.
There are over 500 species of sharks that play important roles in the balance needed for healthy oceans. Some sharks are at the top of the ocean food web keeping marine populations healthy. Other sharks keep the ocean clean by eating animal remains (detritus).
You may find lots of shark teeth at the beach. Sharks loose up to 30,000 teeth over their lifetime and replace them very quickly.
You’ll never find shark bones. Shark and ray skeletons are not made of bones like we have. Their skeletons are made with cartilage, like we have in our ears and noses!
Learn more about sharks and rays by reading some great books today.
And when you are finished reading, here are some great activities from members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums to help young children learn more.
