08/12/2023
In this week's podcast, we bravely share our deep-seated fears related to swimming, and one fear that seems to unite us all is the spine-tingling thought of encountering sharks. But fear not, fellow open water swimmers, we are here to lighten the mood with some interesting and unusual facts about these rather impressive creatures.
Sharks aren't limiting their horizons to the open sea; certain species can be found in freshwater territories. Take bull sharks, for instance. Their remarkable ability to absorb and process extra water allows them to thrive in bays, rivers, and lagoons. A prime example of this adaptation is the Thames estuary, boasting a residence for at least five shark species (bull sharks not included, thankfully).
Shark livers boast an oil-rich composition, and when combined with their perpetual movement, this dynamic duo plays a crucial role in maintaining buoyancy. Unlike the majority of other fish, which utilise gas-filled swim bladders for buoyancy, sharks have developed their distinctive reliance on oil.
Sharks belong to the exclusive club of species that managed to endure five major mass extinction events, making up a resilient 5 percent of survivors.
According to scientists, Greenland sharks have now clinched the title of Earth's longest-living vertebrates. Employing radiocarbon dating, researchers scrutinised the ages of 28 of these remarkable creatures. The findings astoundingly revealed that one female among them was estimated to be approximately 400 years old.
Final thoughts:
Sharks in an ecosystem signal a healthy, diverse ocean. As apex predators, they prevent species dominance, boosting overall biodiversity. Studies show areas with sharks have richer marine life, underlining their crucial role. It's easy to say this, but we should all celebrate, not fear, their presence; it signifies a thriving marine environment vital for Earth's well-being.
