MYTH

While sharks have an excellent sense of smell, they can only detect blood from about a quarter mile away under ideal conditions.

Source: Shark Sensory Biology - Florida Museum

FACT

Sharks evolved around 400 million years ago, while trees appeared about 350 million years ago.

Source: Shark Evolution Timeline - Smithsonian Ocean

FACT

About 95% of shark attacks happen in water less than 6 feet deep, simply because that's where most people swim.

Source: International Shark Attack File Statistics

FACT

Sharks have special organs called ampullae of Lorenzini that can detect the electrical fields of other animals.

Source: Shark Magnetic Navigation - Current Biology

MYTH

Of over 500 shark species, only about 10 are considered dangerous to humans. Most sharks are harmless.

Source: Shark Species and Human Risk - NOAA Fisheries