Hobbies And Interests
Fear of Sharks
Because of the dangers posed by some sharks, and some well publicized attacks over the decades, some people fear this large fish. Reports of shark attacks on swimmers, surfboards and watercraft have contributed to this concern. Though shark attacks are unlikely and rare considering the number of people who swim in oceans around the world each day, many people feel an exaggerated concern about the possibility of a shark attack. Though studies show that most sharks avoid humans, the fear persists.
Sharks Living in Captivity
People who visit a large aquarium get to observe sharks in captivity. The facilities that house the large fish provide the opportunity for humans to see sharks in a different light. Whether humans get to observe hammerheads, great whites or tiger sharks, being able to see them up close can be awe-inspiring for people of all ages. Being able to watch them peacefully swimming and even co-habitating with other fish gives aquarium visitors insight into shark behavior, and the chance to see that they are not always aggressive creatures.
Studying Sharks
Those who study sharks learn about various species and their environments. They learn about their hunting patterns, reproduction and life expectancy. Whether on an elementary, high school or college level, learning what sharks are all about provides insight and helps eliminate the fear and mystery surrounding these large fish. The study of sharks also gives insight into how sharks affect marine life. For example, in waters infested by these predators, the population of other fish species declines. This in turn affects fishermen and others who rely on marine life for food, because many of the fish that sharks eat, such as flounder and other sharks, are also consumed by humans.
Sharks in Popular Culture
Over the decades, sharks in popular culture have been portrayed as heroes and villains. Countries around the world, such as Japan, have shown sharks in movies as animals who only kill bad human beings. Books have characterized sharks as funny animals that appeal to children. Sharks have been painted in artwork, and written about in poetry and short stories. When shark attacks make the news, headlines in newspapers and on television broadcasts are common. However, possibly the most famous portrayal of sharks in recent times is the 1970s movie "Jaws." This iconic film thrilled audiences, prompted sequels and instilled a fear of the great white shark in many ocean-lovers and swimmers that still lingers.
Economic Effects of Sharks
Sharks make an economic impact on people who depend on them for food and livelihood. This is especially the case in developing countries, where people hunt sharks to sell to local food markets. Those who consume shark meat often rely on it as a primary food source, especially in developing coastal countries. However, because the numbers of sharks in some areas are dwindling, those who rely on fishing and sharks for food may have to find other sources of income and food. For example, a dish made popular in China, shark fin soup, has led to overfishing of sharks, and dwindling populations that biologist fear could upset marine ecosystems. This prompted California, among others, to consider banning sale of the soup.
Sharks and Tourism
People in coastal areas in which tourism drives the economy often see sharks as a nuisance to their livelihood. Areas where sharks are common, such as the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean around Hawaii, often see a decline in tourism when sharks are spotted in the waters where tourists swim. The occasional shark attack can dramatically affect tourism dollars for weeks or months in these areas. Government and tourism officials in these areas do their best to calm concerns and make visitors feel comfortable about enjoying the water.