Sharks are one of the oldest and most fascinating creatures in the oceans. They have existed for about 400 million years, which means they are older than dinosaurs. Today, there are more than 500 known species. The largest is the whale shark, which can grow up to 12 meters, while the smallest is only around 20 cm long.
Sharks have skeletons made of cartilage instead of bone, making them lighter and faster. They usually have sharp teeth that are continuously replaced throughout their lives. Some species have an excellent sense of smell and can detect the scent of blood from kilometers away.
Contrary to popular belief, sharks rarely attack humans. They usually do so out of curiosity or by mistake. As predators, they play a vital role in maintaining balance in the ocean ecosystem.
