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 evolved around 400 million years ago, while trees appeared about 350 million years ago.

Source: Shark Evolution Timeline - Smithsonian Ocean

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

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