"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."

- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

#sharks

Positive Reads

Sharks Outlive Saturn's Rings: An Age-Old Tale of Resilience and Adaption

Sharks are often considered one of the most ancient creatures on Earth, with a history dating back over 400 million years. However, it may come as a surprise that sharks are actually older than one of the most iconic features of our solar system - the rings of Saturn. According to NASA, the rings of Saturn are estimated to be no more than 100 million years old, while sharks have been swimming in Earth's oceans for over four times that length of time. The contrast between the age of the sharks and the rings of Saturn is a fascinating reminder of the vastness of our universe and the incredible longevity of some of the planet's most remarkable creatures. Sharks have survived mass extinctions, changing climates, and the evolution of countless other species, making them one of the most resilient animals on the planet. Their continued existence is a testament to their adaptability and the importance of preserving their habitats and ecosystems. While the age of sharks and the rings of Saturn may seem unrelated, this comparison highlights the enduring fascination that these creatures hold for people around the world and the importance of continuing to explore and uncover the mysteries of our universe.

17 Jul 2023
Positive Reads

Nature's Grand Spectacle: Rare Sighting of Whale Sharks Thrills Chennai Fishermen

In a remarkable display of nature's wonders, approximately 20 majestic whale sharks have taken up residence near the shores of Chennai, providing local fishermen with a daily spectacle of excitement and awe. Experts believe that the presence of artificial reefs in the area has attracted these magnificent creatures, turning the region into a feeding ground for them. According to Joe K Kizhakudan, a scientist at the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), over the past week, more than 20 whale sharks have been spotted along the Chennai coast, specifically in Pulicat, Semmencherry, Chinnandi, and Kovalam. While whale sharks were traditionally seen predominantly on the West Coast, they have increasingly been sighted along the East Coast, particularly in Tamil Nadu, thanks to the availability of food near the artificial reefs. Among this group of whale sharks, an incredible sighting occurred when a juvenile ventured close to the Neelankarai beach. Photographs shared by the Tree Foundation, an NGO dedicated to turtle conservation, captured the shark swimming leisurely, seemingly undisturbed by human presence, with the beautiful sandy beach and buildings in the background. Experts predict that the whale shark presence near Chennai will be short-lived as the annual fishing ban is set to end on June 14, prompting the return of thousands of trawler boats to the sea. However, for now, the absence of disturbances allows the whale sharks to roam freely and enjoy their time in the area. Despite their enormous size, whale sharks pose no harm to humans. These gentle giants feed by filtering vast quantities of nutrient-rich water through their wide-open mouths, capturing zooplankton, phytoplankton, krill, roe, small crustaceans, squid, and fish. The unprecedented gathering of whale sharks in Tamil Nadu, including four adult females and approximately 16 juveniles, presents a unique research opportunity. Scientists, such as Kizhakudan, are eager to geotag some individuals to gain valuable insights into their migration patterns and understand how they locate abundant food sources. As nature continues to surprise us with its awe-inspiring marvels, the rare sighting of these magnificent whale sharks near Chennai reminds us of the importance of preserving our marine ecosystems and fostering a harmonious coexistence between humans and marine life.

13 Jun 2023
Positive Reads

Global Inspirations

Marine biologist on a mission to save great white sharks

Mexican marine biologist Edgar Mauricio Hoyos is on a mission to protect the most dreaded creature of the waters which according to him is the perfect creature in the world. He has written a book to spread the message of protection of great white sharks. Hoyos said that when we see a great white shark, we shouldn’t be petrified, but we must remember that we are dealing with one of the most perfect creatures in the world. At the launch of his book "El gran tiburon blanco, protector de los oceanos" (The Great White Shark, Protector of the Oceans), on Tuesday at a Mexico City museum,  Hoyos educated the public about great whites, stating that the huge predators do not eat humans. In his 119 page book, Hoyos stresses the need to protect the great white sharks. He has spent the last 14 years studying the sharks at Isla de Guadalupe, located about 355 kilometers (220 miles) off the coast of Baja California state. Hoyos said that the sharks visit Isla de Guadalupe each year between August and February and feed on fish, sea lions and dead whales thus maintaining balance in the marine ecosystem. His book contains everything that one wants to know about the great white sharks. It is unfortunate that the great white sharks are threatened by fishermen, who earn a big amount by selling the animals' fins and jaws. Shark fins are prized as a delicacy in Asia.

31 Aug 2017
Global Inspirations

Archives