A previously undiscovered shark species dating back over 90 million years ago was recently discovered in an ancient seabed in modern-day Kansas. The partial remains of the newly named Cretodus houghtonorum, which is believed to be nearly 20 feet in length, was discovered in the region known as the Western Interior Seaway in 2010 at […]
SharkoFiles: Sand Tiger Shark
The sand tiger shark is notable for its ferocious appearance. However, despite the appearance, this shark species are one of the most docile sharks in the ocean. They only attack when provoked; otherwise, they are harmless to humans. They are one of the big sharks likely to be seen on display in the public aquarium […]
Citizen scientists identify sand tiger aggregation site in North Carolina
The photos, many of which were submitted as part of the SpotAShark USA program through the North Carolina Aquariums, dated back to 2007.
Do sharks sneeze?
By Jane Williamson, Associate Professor in Marine Ecology, Macquarie University When an animal sneezes, it’s their way of getting rid of annoying bits and pieces that have floated inside their nose and mouth. While many animals, including humans, elephants, pandas and even seals, can sneeze, sharks unfortunately cannot. To be able to sneeze, an animal […]
Researchers use tooth DNA to identify shark involved in NY bite
University of Florida researchers used DNA extracted from a tooth fragment pulled from the leg of a shark bite victim to identify the species involved in an incident involving a 13-year-old boy off the coast of New York. “We’re as close to 100 percent sure as we can get that this shark was a sand […]
Doctors use botox injection on sand tiger shark
A dermatologist may have devised a novel treatment for scoliosis occurring in sharks. Charles E. Crutchfield III, MD, along with the Minnesota Zoo’s veterinary staff, injected botox into a captive sand tiger shark that was suffering from scoliosis. Sharks in the wild, as well as in human care, can develop scoliosis. Some types of scoliosis are […]
Shark ecotourism can enhance compassion through education
When you see the monster up close, it doesn’t look like a monster any more. In fact, you might even want to rub its belly. Such is often the case with sharks. They look big, and intimidating but when you are able to understand and learn about them, you find that they are majestic and […]
Shark Files: Swimming with sharks at The Florida Aquarium
The Sharkophile checks out the Swim with Sharks exhibit at The Florida Aquarium for an educational experience that puts divers up close with the apex predators. The 30-minute shark dive at the Florida Aquarium in Tampa starts at $129.99 and is open to certified divers over 15 years of age. It is an ideal dive for […]
SharkVentures: Swim with sharks at the Tampa Aquarium
Swim with the sharks at the Florida Aquarium in Tampa Bay. This guided, 30-minute expedition replicates the Florida Keys’ most beautiful coral reef dive sites. Just strap on some provided scuba gear and a floatation device to experience the thrill of scuba diving from the surface of the water, while still enjoying all the sights […]
Aquarium dives offer controlled conditions to see sharks up close
Whenever you enter the water there’s always the distinct possibility that you encounter a shark. Sharks have been around for millions of years and will, hopefully, continue to do so for millions more. As a good introduction and part of diver training should be more about interacting with sea creatures and to understand not to […]