Sharks - What We Need to Know

By Lady Kat

Did you know that sharks are one of the oldest creatures on earth?

Sharks have dominated our oceans for more than 400 million years! And even though they are known as being a fearsome predator, sharks are among the most vulnerable animals on Earth. Unless we act now, their days are numbered!

Unlike other fish who rapidly reproduce, sharks are particularly susceptible to exploitation because it has a long life span and low reproductive rate. Most sharks do not reach sexual maturity until late in life and produce only a small number of offspring.

Tragically sharks may be the least protected of all ocean wildlife. Governments are only just beginning to take steps to conserve these ecologically important animals. Although at least 125 countries and territories are involved in international trade of sharks and shark products, only 4 currently have specific management plans for shark fisheries. There is no international management regime for shared populations.

Shark fin, meat, liver and other parts are sold for food or as ingredients in health and beauty aids. Shark fins have become one of the world's most valuable commodities and can fetch up to $256 per pound!! In Hong Kong, a single bowl of shark fin soup can sell for as much as $90.

So my friends, think twice before you buy shark products, especially shark cartilage, shark fin soup and other products that come from depleted shark populations.

How You Can Help!

• Help the World Wildlife Fund protect sharks in the Pacific. You can send mail to:
  World Wildlife Fund
  1250 24th St. NW
  Washington, DC 20037
• Sign up for World Wildlife Fund's Conservation Action Network at:
  www.takeaction.worldwildlife.org
• The effort to save endangered species requires cooperation and support at the international, national, regional and individual levels. You can help in this cause. Join and become active in a conservation organization of your choice. Don't buy products made from wild animal parts.
• Let your elected representatives know your views about protecting endangered species and wild habitats.

Links

• US Petition for swift passage of the Shark Conservation Act
• Everything about sharks; anatomy, behaviour, characteristics, habitats, diet etc

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