If you were a kid in the 1970s, you were almost certainly terrified of going into the ocean - a fear instilled in you by the Jaws movies. However, according to the International Shark Attack File, there are only about 72 unprovoked shark attacks worldwide each year, which is a relatively small number given the many sleepless nights and swimming phobias caused by a fear of sharks.
The far more terrifying reality is that the much-maligned shark has long been under attack from its greatest predator: us. In any given year, humans kill well over 100 million sharks. This week on Sea Change Radio, we speak with Mongabay reporter Philip Jacobson about one Chinese-based fishing company's illegal shark-finning practices, why he believes this practice is far from unique, and what efforts are being made to save this important apex predator.
The far more terrifying reality is that the much-maligned shark has long been under attack from its greatest predator: us. In any given year, humans kill well over 100 million sharks. This week on Sea Change Radio, we speak with Mongabay reporter Philip Jacobson about one Chinese-based fishing company's illegal shark-finning practices, why he believes this practice is far from unique, and what efforts are being made to save this important apex predator.