by Stefani Andrews

Created on: July 30, 2009   Last Updated: July 31, 2009

When considering the question of which shark species are the most dangerous sharks in the world, there are several factors that must be taken into consideration. There are nearly 400 species of shark and only 39 of them have ever proven any danger to humans. And even of those 39 species, only a handful can truly be termed dangerous to humans. To determine the danger of a species based solely on how many people they bite would also be misguided. Factors such as where the shark lives have to be considered, as a species can be considered more dangerous if humans run a higher risk of actually running into one. The percentage of attacks to fatalities is also important. Certain sharks style of attack lend itself to a lot of bites but most are relatively minor. Unfortunately for humans, even a minor bite can have serious consequences. Based on all of these factors combined a more accurate picture of the most dangerous shark species emerges.

Based on all data involved the Bull Shark (Carcharinus Leucas) is the most dangerous shark to humans. The species can reach sizes of 11.5 feet in length and a weight of about 700 lbs. Part of the reason they are so dangerous is the waters they inhabit. Bull sharks generally prefer shallow, murky waters that are off sandbars and reefs where people are likely to be. They are also the only shark known to be able to survive and live in fresh water. The bull shark has been found in the Mississippi River, the Amazon River, and the Ganges River, just to name a few. This makes it even more likely that bull sharks and humans will encounter each other. While they may not have the highest number of attacks, 110 as of 2008, but out of those attacks there have been 23 fatalities. This gives the bull shark a 21% fatality rate, much higher than any other shark species. Even though the bull shark normally is in shallow water where help should be readily available, their attack style makes them much more deadly than other sharks. These sharks truly live up to their namesake, the bull. They are tough, determined, and once they decide they are going to bite you they are not likely to give up easily. Bull sharks have been known to bite a victim multiple times to weaken them and try to take them to deeper water. They are truly a shark that should be avoided.

The Tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier) is also a species that can be very dangerous to people. They can grow to sizes of 14 feet and weigh up to 2000 lbs. Typically they are not particularly aggressive

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