Sharks are some of the most
fascinating, most ecologically
important, most threatened, and
most misunderstood animals on
Earth. More often feared than
revered, their role as predators
of the deep have earned them a
reputation as a major threat to
humans. But the truth is that
sharks are not a danger to
us―they're in danger from
us.
In Why
Sharks Matter, marine
conservation biologist Dr. David
Shiffman explains why it's crucial
that we overcome our
misconceptions and rise above
cinematic jump scares to embrace
sharks as the imperiled and
elegant ocean guardians they
really are. Sharing his own
fascinating experiences working
with sharks, Shiffman tells us
• why healthy shark
populations are a must for
supporting ocean ecosystems―and
the coastal economies that depend
on them
• why we're in danger of losing
many shark species forever
• what scientists,
conservationists, and readers can
do to help save these iconic
predators
• why so much of what you've heard
about sharks and how to save them
is wrong
Exploring the core tenets of
shark conservation science and
policy, Shiffman synthesizes
decades of scientific research and
policymaking, weaving it into a
narrative full of humor and
adventure. Touching on everything
from Shark Week to shark fin soup,
overfishing to marine sanctuaries,
Shiffman reveals why sharks are in
trouble, why we should care, and
how we can save them. Perfect for
shark enthusiasts, Why
Sharks Matter is an
approachable, informative guide to
the world of shark conservation
and the passionate, fascinating,
brilliant people who work to
understand and protect our oceans.
This fun read will have you
looking at sharks with a fresh
perspective and an understanding
that the survival of sharks is
crucial to the survival of another
apex predator―ourselves.