The Shark Almanac; A Fully Illustrated Natural History of Sharks, Skates, and Rays

by Thomas B. Allen

• ISBN13: 9781585748082
• ISBN10: 1585748080
• Format: Trade Paper
• Copyright: 2003-05-01
• Publisher: The Lyons Press

Summary

Sharks have a reputation of being the most feared creatures of the sea, and in this fantastic book, we learn the myths and facts of these fascinating animals--and that they aren't as deadly as they seem. Of the more than 850 shark species, 80 percent either would not hurt people, or would rarely encounter them. Sharks and their kin--skates and rays--have remained essentially unchanged for hundreds of millions of years, and their very existence is now threatened by man and his fears. Thomas Allen takes us through the evolution of the shark, its folklore, its commercial uses, and gives us a detailed look at shark attacks--where they happen, why, and how to protect yourself from them. He describes over one hundred shark species--their behavior, appearance, size, and distribution--and provides helpful scientific illustrations. He offers current information on scientific research (including the recent studies on shark cartilage in cancer research), current population findings, and continuing conservation efforts. With over twenty-five color photographs of familiar and unusual sharks, interesting and fact-filled sidebars, and useful appendices, THE SHARK ALMANAC is a comprehensive overview and the perfect book for anyone interested in these amazing creatures.

Author Biography

THOMAS B. ALLEN was formerly on the staff of National Geographic magazine, to which he continues to contribute. He also authored the highly acclaimed Shadows in the Sea (page 202). He lives in Bethesda, Maryland.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Two Blue Sharks	1	(4)
The Enduring Shark	5	(6)
The Fish Called Shark	11	(32)
The Great Shark Gallery	43	(76)
Shark Kin and Companions	119	(52)
When a Shark Attacks	171	(36)
Tales of the Shark	207	(16)
Seeking the Shark	223	(16)
The Shark Endangered	239	(12)
Appendix I: Sharks' Popular and Scientific Names	251	(2)
Appendix II: Official Shark Catch Records of the IGFA	253	(10)
Bibliography	263	(6)
Index	269