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

FACT

Sharks first appeared around 400 million years ago, while dinosaurs appeared around 230 million years ago.

Source: Ancient Sharks - Natural History Museum

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

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

Source: Shark Vision Research - Journal of Experimental 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