by Michelle Schultz

Created on: August 09, 2008   Last Updated: August 13, 2008

Say the word shark and most people will automatically think of Jaws. Due to attacks, the Great White and various other shark species are considered man-eaters. This mindset is one of the many reasons the world's sharks are in danger, as many as, 20 Shark species will be extinct by the year 2017. There are other reasons for the near extinction of these species; Shark Fin Soup is a delicacy in many countries, many cosmetics use shark liver oil as a moisturizing agent, shark jaws have become a trophy item, fishing practices decimate populations as well as habitat, and pollution and present problem all over the world.

Among the 20, most endangered species are six known species of rare river shark, Dumb Gulper Shark and Striped Dogfish. These species are harmless to humans and most likely most humans do not know they exist. River Sharks are a very rare species that live in specific river basins or systems. The only known specimens were collected in the 19th century. Research on these fish is minimal due to their rarity. We only know they do exist. The Dumb Gulper Shark and the Striped Dogfish are very small shark species whose length rarely exceeds four feet. These bottom feeding fish are especially profitable for their liver oil.
There are over 450 known species of shark, of that number; over 100 species are in danger of extinction. The Great White, Bull, Grey Nurse and Ocean White Tip are among those species whose numbers are rapidly decreasing. Some people may say "So what?" or "Less people will be bitten". Is this a valid reason for the extinction of a species? History will be the judge; in the mean time, we as a society should be very worried. The ecological health of the world's oceans depends on the presence of sharks. These fish are vital as the top predator. They cannot be replaced and their absence will cause overpopulation and death to many other fish species. Conservationists and Marine Biologists continue to monitor this situation.
Sharks need our help. Stop buying products that use shark parts, stop visiting retailers who insist on stocking shark items and reform current fishing practices. Long lining and trawling kill not only sharks but sea turtles dolphins and sea birds alike. One person can make a difference, by telling friends, family or writing congressional representative. Be an example not the norm. We the people have created this issue and only we the people can fix it.

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