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

Source: Ancient Sharks - Natural History Museum

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 can lose and regrow thousands of teeth in their lifetime, with some species growing new teeth every two weeks.

Source: Shark Teeth Facts - American Museum of Natural History

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