What Are Shark Predators?
Quick Answer
Sharks are apex predators that have no natural enemies; however, humans are predators of sharks, with an estimated 30 to 100 million sharks are killed every year by fisherman. This has caused many species of sharks to become vulnerable to endangerment.
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Sharks are extremely important to the ecosystem. In fact, without sharks, the food chain would drastically change. Since sharks are at the top of the ocean's food chain, they are necessary for keeping the predators of other species in check. Without sharks, the population of other fish and mammals could easily get out of control.
Despite their reputation, sharks are typically non-violent creatures, attacking only when provoked or due to miscommunication when humans inhabit their territories. The great white shark, known for feasting on many larger marine animals, typically doesn't show any interest in killing or eating people.
The IUCN Shark Specialist Group believes that over 16 types of shark and ray species are at risk of extinction based on targeted fishing efforts. Certain sharks have fins used to make soups and household remedies, and fishing lines trap and injure others. The Discovery Channel, which devotes a week of programming to sharks each year, believes that undiscovered species of sharks may become extinct before their discovery.
Learn more about SharksRelated Questions
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Q:
What Is a Male Shark Called?
A: Male sharks are referred to as bulls or simply as males. Female sharks are only referred to as females, and the offspring of sharks are called pups. Full Answer >Filed Under: -
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How Large Was the Megalodon Shark?
A: Megalodon sharks were capable of reaching sizes up to 60 feet long. Some scientists believed the sharks could grow to 70 feet long, although most Megalodon... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
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How Does a Shark Protect Itself?
A: The 400 living species of sharks defend themselves in a variety of ways that vary from species to species. Large species, such as great whites, basking sha... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Animal Eats Hammerhead Sharks?
A: There are not any animals or predators who eat adult hammerhead sharks. Larger sharks may prey on injured or young hammerhead sharks. Full Answer >Filed Under:
