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

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

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