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

FACT

Sharks have skeletons made entirely of cartilage, the same flexible material in human ears and noses.

Source: Shark Anatomy - Georgia Aquarium

FACT

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

Source: Shark Evolution Timeline - Smithsonian Ocean

FACT

Young sharks are indeed called pups, regardless of the species.

Source: Shark Reproduction - Encyclopedia Britannica

MYTH

Whale sharks are the largest, reaching up to 40 feet. Great whites typically reach 15-20 feet.

Source: Whale Shark Facts - WWF