MYTH

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

Source: Whale Shark Facts - WWF

MYTH

While reported attacks may increase due to better reporting and more people in the water, actual attack rates remain very low.

Source: Shark Attack Trends - International Shark Attack File

MYTH

Recent studies show that many sharks can see in color, though not as well as humans.

Source: Shark Vision Research - Journal of Experimental Biology

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

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