Shark Basics

Types: Sharks are among the oldest and most primitive of fish. Some of the more common types of sharks are the Bull Shark, Hammerhead, Mako, Great White, Nurse, Basking, Thresher and Whale Shark.

Teeth:The shark's teeth are set into the gum lines in rows and as one row wears out, another takes its place. Some species have many rows, which form block-like 'pavement teeth' used for crushing shellfish. A shark can replace a lost tooth in as little as ten days.

Man-Made Goods:If you've ever been into a shell shop near the beach, you've probably glimpsed shark tooth necklaces. The necklaces tend to fall in all price ranges depending on the quality of the necklace, and the shark's tooth. Sharkskin is also widely used in making a variety of products from boots to billfolds. The shark is also widely fished; shark fin soup is considered a delicacy in some areas and can be quite steep in price.

The Young:Some species bear fully formed young while others hatch from eggs that are enclosed in a leathery envelope. These envelopes generally have long tendrils that curl around rocks and seaweed, preventing the eggs from drifting ashore.

Medical Benefits:Shark liver oil is a good source of Vitamin A. Some species of sharks are highly resistant to cancer and could one day provide us with a cure for this terrible life-threatening disease.

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