Quck answer
Sharks are fascinating creatures, but they can also be dangerous. Here are the 10 most dangerous sharks, based on the number of attacks on humans:
1. Great White Shark – responsible for the most unprovoked attacks on humans
2. Tiger Shark – known for its aggressive behavior
3. Bull Shark – aggressive and known to attack in shallow waters
4. Oceanic Whitetip Shark – responsible for many fatalities
5. Shortfin Mako Shark – known for its speed and aggression
6. Blacktip Shark – frequently found in shallow waters
7. Sand Tiger Shark – known to attack humans who get too close
8. Hammerhead Shark – known for its unique head shape and aggressive behavior
9. Bronze Whaler Shark – aggressive and territorial
10. Lemon Shark – known to attack humans who come too close to their territory
It’s important to remember that shark attacks are rare, and most sharks don’t pose a threat to humans. However, it’s always a good idea to exercise caution when swimming in the ocean, especially in areas known to be frequented by sharks.
Wild Animals
Tiger sharks, such as the one pictured here, are known for their aggressiveness and territorial behavior. Rodrigo Friscione/Getty Images
Sharks often get a bad rap, but are they really as dangerous as people make them out to be? Surprisingly, cows pose a greater threat to humans than sharks do [source: Faletto]. In fact, drowning or sustaining an injury from a surfboard is more likely to occur than a shark attack while in the water [source: Martin].
Researchers use statistics like these to demonstrate that sharks are not the ferocious creatures they are often made out to be. For instance, in 2021, dogs were responsible for 17,989 instances of biting humans, while there were only 47 unprovoked shark attacks reported off the coast of the United States [source: III, ISAF]. This means that the likelihood of being bitten by a dog is 383 times greater than being attacked by a shark.
Nonetheless, the idea of a shark attack is terrifying for many people, thanks to movies like “Jaws” and sensational news stories. Sharks represent the unknown and the unpredictable. While we can understand why dogs might bite us, sharks do not exhibit the same type of emotional response. This makes it easy to portray them as mindless killers.
Occasionally, the statistics support our fears. The number of shark attacks has risen slightly in recent years, but this can be attributed to more individuals participating in recreational water activities, rather than a sudden uptick in shark aggression.
Any shark measuring over 6 feet (1.8 meters) in length is considered a potential threat to humans because of its size and adaptations, such as stronger jaws and teeth that have enabled it to grow to such a large size [sources: Burgess, Ritter]. While these sharks may not be actively pursuing human flesh, if they were to take a bite, the damage could be significant.
Out of almost 400 identified shark species, less than 10 percent have been known to attack humans [source: Martin]. Of these, only around 30 species have been implicated in attacks. So, which sharks are the most dangerous? Let’s examine the attack records, stereotypes, and sharp teeth to find out. The following 10 species have been responsible for the most attacks according to the International Shark Attack File (ISAF) between 1580 and the present [source: ISAF]. We’ll start with number 10.
10: Blue Shark
Blue sharks, such as this one in Azores, Portugal, are typically more afraid of humans than humans are of them. by wildestanimal/Getty Images
The good news is that you don’t need to worry about a blue shark (Prionace glauca) stalking you while you swim a few yards from the shore. This predator, which can grow over 12 feet (3.6 meters) in length, prefers to stay in waters at least 1,150 feet (350 meters) deep, where it hunts small fish like herring and sardines, as well as invertebrates such as squid, cuttlefish, and octopus. It has also been observed scavenging dead marine animals and stealing from fishermen’s nets.
But here’s the bad news: Although blue sharks are generally not aggressive, unlike their more dangerous relatives, such as bull sharks, they will not hesitate to attack humans if given the opportunity, such as in the case of a shipwreck or plane crash survival situation.
According to the Florida Museum of Natural History, blue sharks have been known to circle around humans in their feeding grounds and even take exploratory bites, resulting in 13 unprovoked attacks, four of which were fatal. However, in reality, blue sharks have much more to fear from humans as an estimated 10 to 20 million of them are killed each year. Many are caught in fishermen’s nets or slaughtered for their fins to make shark fin soup.
Bronze whaler sharks, named for their gray to olive-green coloring, have outwardly hooked teeth, rounded snouts, and are usually around 6.6 to 7.5 feet in length for males and 7.9 feet for females. They are caught for human consumption and have been implicated in 15 shark attacks, only one of which resulted in a fatality. They tend to feed on schooling fish close to the shore and are seasonally migratory.
The oceanic whitetip shark, known for its white-tipped fins and tail, has only had 12 unprovoked attacks and three fatalities on record. However, it is believed that this shark may be responsible for many more attacks that go unreported due to lack of evidence. It is also believed to have eaten many servicemen during times of war and is known for being bold and persistent in investigating divers.
The difference between provoked and unprovoked shark attacks lies in the human action that caused the attack. Provoked attacks happen when a human irritates the shark, such as by pulling its tail or feeding it by hand. Unprovoked attacks occur when the shark bites and pursues a human without any known provocation. However, the shark’s perception of provocation may differ.
The Wobbegong shark, also known as the carpet shark, lies in wait on the ocean floor for prey such as crustaceans and fish. Despite their seemingly docile appearance, they have been responsible for at least 19 attacks on humans, with one species, the spotted wobbegong, being reportedly aggressive towards humans. Wobbegongs can mistake humans for prey and may bite if their limbs get too close to their mouths. Once a wobbegong latches onto a person, it is difficult to dislodge and can cause severe lacerations. However, humans pose a greater threat to wobbegongs as they are often caught by trawlers and spearfishermen.
Sand tiger sharks generally do not attack humans unless provoked. They have prominent, jagged-looking teeth that can be intimidating to fishermen. Sand tiger sharks have been responsible for 36 attacks on humans, but none of these attacks have been fatal. They are found in most warm seas throughout the world, except for the eastern Pacific, and are commonly found close to shore at depths ranging from 6 to 626 feet. They can also be found in shallow bays, coral and rocky reefs, and deeper areas around the outer continental shelves.
Sand tiger sharks are large fish with flattened snouts and long mouths that extend behind their eyes. They can have dark reddish or brown spots scattered on their bodies and females can grow up to 10 feet long. Sand tigers feed on herring, mullets, and rays and sometimes hunt in schools, surrounding and bunching their prey. They are classified as a “vulnerable” species by the IUCN and are fished for food in various parts of the world.
The blacktip shark, which is part of the Carcharhinidae family, is known for inflicting many of the reported shark bites on Florida surfers. However, they only average about 5 feet in length and 40 pounds in weight, and seldom inflict anything more than minor wounds. Blacktips usually feed on small schooling fish but have been known to eat small sharks, stingrays, crustaceans, and squids. They are often caught by fishermen for their meat and fins, which are sold in Asian markets for making soup. The IUCN classifies them as “near threatened” around the world and “vulnerable” in the Northwest Atlantic region.
Requiem sharks are a family of 12 genera and approximately 50 species. They have a highly sophisticated sensory system that can detect low frequency vibrations emitted by struggling fish on a spear. Once they’ve arrived in the vicinity of the catch and can smell blood, their aggressive instincts can take over, making them a threat to spear fishermen.
Requiem sharks are known for their sharp teeth and strong swimming abilities, making them dangerous to humans. Although there have been 68 recorded attacks, only one has been fatal. Some species, like the gray reef shark, have a threatening posture and should be avoided if seen. Requiem sharks are also known for their voracious appetite, feeding on a variety of creatures including sharks, rays, and even sea birds.
The bull shark, with 121 total attacks and 26 unprovoked fatalities, is considered one of the most aggressive sharks in the ocean. While the tiger shark has more attacks and fatalities on record, the bull shark is believed to be responsible for many attacks blamed on other species. The bull shark’s ability to live in both salt and freshwater, as well as its territorial nature, makes it more likely to come into contact with humans.
Tiger sharks, known for their ability to eat anything, have been found with a variety of objects in their bellies, including cans of paint and cigarettes. While they are not specifically hunting humans, their tendency to not let go once they’ve taken a bite makes them dangerous.
Tiger sharks have powerful jaws with elastic muscles that allow them to consume prey much larger than expected. Once caught in their sharp teeth, there is little chance of escape. These teeth have caused 138 attacks, including 36 fatalities. The top three sharks responsible for 99 percent of shark attacks are the tiger, bull, and great white. The great white is the most dangerous shark, responsible for 354 total unprovoked attacks, including 57 fatalities. Despite its portrayal in “Jaws,” the great white is not a mindless killing machine but rather a curious animal that may bite humans to determine if they are suitable prey. However, they prefer seals and sea lions and rarely return for seconds. Great whites are elusive and usually stay in deep waters, making them even more frightening to some.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dangerous Sharks
Which shark is the most dangerous?
Bull sharks are considered to be one of the most dangerous sharks in the world and are similar to their infamous relatives, tiger sharks and great whites.
Which shark has killed the most humans?
As of April 2021, the great white shark, which was featured in the film “Jaws,” has been responsible for the highest number of unprovoked attacks with a total of 333 events, including 52 fatalities. However, it is important to note that the risk of being bitten or killed by a shark remains extremely low.
Do hammerhead sharks attack people?
Hammerhead sharks rarely attack humans, and only 16 attacks with no fatalities have ever been recorded globally. In fact, humans pose a greater threat to the species than the other way around.
Which is more dangerous: tiger sharks or bull sharks?
Unprovoked attacks by tiger sharks slightly exceed those of bull sharks. As of April 2021, tiger sharks are responsible for 131 attacks, including 34 fatalities, while bull sharks have attacked 117 times resulting in 25 fatalities. However, it is worth noting that humans are more likely to come into contact with a bull shark compared to other species because they tend to swim in shallow water where humans are often present.
Is it safe to swim with tiger sharks?
Most experienced divers agree that seeing a shark on a dive is a treat. However, it is important to practice safe behavior around them to ensure a positive experience. The risk of harm from a shark encounter is statistically small, but they are apex predators and should be treated with respect.
Find Out More
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- Why Do People Collect Shark Teeth?
- How Shark Attacks Work
- How Diving With Sharks Work
Sources
- Allen, Thomas B. “Shark Attacks: Their Causes and Avoidance.” The Lyons Press. 2001.
- Bester, Cathleen. “Oceanic Whitetip Shark.” Florida Museum of Natural History Ichthyology Department. (May 20, 2022) https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/discover-fish/species-profiles/carcharhinus-longimanus/
- Braun, David. “Underwater Photographer On Swimming With Sharks.” National Geographic News. March 8, 2005. (May 20, 2022)
- Bright, Michael. “The Private Life of Sharks: The Truth Behind the Myth.” Stackpole Books. 1999.
- Burgess, G.H. “Shark Attacks in Perspective.” International Shark Attack File. (May 20, 2022) http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/fish/sharks/attacks/perspect.htm
- Castro, Jose L. and Peebles, Diane Rome. “The Sharks of North America.” Oxford University Press. 2011. (May 20, 2022) http://books.google.com/books?id=KQdeVX1yX6AC&pg=PA406&dq=copper+shark+attack&hl=en&ei=8ynVTojHIsnX0QHrlemgAg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=3&ved=0CEUQ6AEwAg#v=onepage&q=copper%20shark%20attack&f=false
- Christian Science Monitor. “Great White Shark Population Lower Than Previously Believed.” March 11, 2011. (Nov. 21, 2011) http://www.csmonitor.com/Environment/Wildlife/2011/0311/Great-white-shark-population-lower-than-previously-believed
- Compagno, Leonard J.V. “FAO species catalogue. Volume 4. Sharks of the World. An annotated and illustrated catalogue of sharks species known to date. Part 2. Carcharhiniformes.” Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. 1984. (May 20, 2022) https://www.fao.org/3/ad123e/ad123e00.htm
- Dehart, Andy. Personal Correspondence. July 18, 2008.
- Dell’Amore, Christine. “Biggest Great White Shark Caught, Released.” National Geographic News. May 6, 2011. (May 20, 2022) https://web.archive.org/web/20110509063931/http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2011/05/110506-biggest-great-white-sharks-apache-caught-animals-science/
- Dingerkus, Guido. “The Shark Watchers’ Guide.” Wanderer Books. 1985.
- Grace, Mark. “Field Guide to Requiem Sharks (Elasmobranchiomorphi: Carcharhinidae) of the Western North Atlantic.” November 2001. (May 20, 2022) https://spo.nmfs.noaa.gov/sites/default/files/legacy-pdfs/tr153.pdf
- Florida Museum of Natural History. “Shark Attack Data for the World.” (May 20, 2022) https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/shark-attacks/yearly-worldwide-summary/
attacks really a major threat compared to dog attacks in the U.S.?” This article from the Florida Museum of Natural History compares the number of fatal shark attacks to fatal dog attacks in the U.S. from 2001 to 2010. According to the data, there were 1,068 deaths caused by dog attacks during that time period, compared to just 10 deaths caused by shark attacks. The article also provides information on various shark species, including the blacktip shark, blue shark, bull shark, great hammerhead, sand tiger shark, tiger shark, and white shark. Additionally, it includes sources for further reading on shark attacks and shark species.
“Are attacks becoming more common?” is the title of an article published by BBC Nature on August 17, 2011. As of May 20, 2022, the article can still be accessed through the archived link https://web.archive.org/web/20110825015650/http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/14559836.
FAQ
What are the top 10 most dangerous sharks in the world?
The top 10 most dangerous sharks in the world are the great white shark, tiger shark, bull shark, oceanic whitetip shark, shortfin mako shark, blacktip shark, lemon shark, grey reef shark, bronze whaler shark, and hammerhead shark. These sharks are considered dangerous due to their size, strength, and aggressive behavior towards humans.
Where do these dangerous sharks live?
These dangerous sharks can be found in various parts of the world’s oceans. Great white sharks are found in coastal waters around Australia, South Africa, and California. Tiger sharks are found in warm waters around the world, including the Caribbean, Hawaii, and Australia. Bull sharks are commonly found in rivers and estuaries, while oceanic whitetip sharks are found in open ocean waters. Shortfin mako sharks are found in temperate and tropical waters, while blacktip sharks are found in warm waters around the world.
What makes these sharks dangerous to humans?
These sharks are dangerous to humans due to their size, strength, and aggressive behavior. Great white sharks are known for their powerful jaws and ability to bite through bone and flesh. Tiger sharks have a reputation for attacking humans and are known to eat anything they can find in the water. Bull sharks are known for their territorial behavior and can be found in shallow waters where humans often swim. Oceanic whitetip sharks are known to attack humans who are stranded at sea, while shortfin mako sharks are known for their speed and aggressive behavior towards fishermen.
What should you do if you encounter one of these dangerous sharks?
If you encounter one of these dangerous sharks, it is important to remain calm and avoid making sudden movements. Do not swim away from the shark, but instead try to move slowly and steadily towards the shore or a boat. If the shark begins to show aggressive behavior, try to defend yourself with any available object and aim for the shark’s eyes or gills. It is important to remember that these sharks are not actively seeking out humans as prey and most attacks occur due to mistaken identity or territorial behavior.
What is being done to protect these sharks?
Conservation efforts are being made to protect these sharks from overfishing and habitat destruction. Many countries have implemented fishing quotas and regulations to prevent the decline of shark populations. Some organizations are also working to promote shark eco-tourism, which allows tourists to observe sharks in their natural habitat without harming them. By educating the public about the importance of sharks in the ecosystem, we can work towards protecting these magnificent creatures for future generations.
Are there any myths or misconceptions about these dangerous sharks?
There are several myths and misconceptions about these dangerous sharks, including the belief that they actively seek out humans as prey. In reality, most shark attacks occur due to mistaken identity or territorial behavior. Additionally, not all sharks are dangerous to humans and many species are harmless. It is important to educate ourselves about these animals and dispel any myths or misconceptions that may lead to their unnecessary harm.
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