FACT

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

Source: Ancient Sharks - Natural History Museum

MYTH

Sharks don't sleep in the traditional sense, but they do have periods of rest and reduced activity.

Source: Do Sharks Sleep? - Discovery Channel

MYTH

While rare, sharks can and do get cancer. This misconception led to harmful cartilage supplement marketing.

Source: Do Sharks Get Cancer? - Journal of Cancer Research

MYTH

Some shark species can pump water over their gills while stationary. Only certain species like great whites need to keep moving.

Source: How Sharks Breathe - ReefQuest Centre

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