Sharks Freeze when You Turn Them Upside Down – and There’s No Good Reason Why

Sharks freeze when you turn them upside down – and there’s no good reason why

Rachel MooreImagine watching your favourite nature documentary. The predator lunges rapidly from its hiding place, jaws wide open, and the prey … suddenly goes limp. It looks dead. For some animals, this freeze response – called “tonic immobility” – can be a lifesaver. Possums famously “play dead” to avoid predators. So do rabbits, lizards, snakes, and even some insects. But what happens when a shark does it? In our recent study, we explored thi…

Scientists baffled after discovering more sharks swimming inland in rivers — here's what you need to know

A new pattern in shark behavior has experts sounding the alarm, and it may have everything to do with an overheating planet. What's happening? Bull sharks are known to be able to swim between saltwater and freshwater, but they're showing up in rivers and lakes in increasing numbers, according to The Travel.  Scientists say the reason may lie in rising global temperatures. As human pollution continues to warm up the planet and its oceans, bull sh…

‘Manipulative’: Big call on shark ‘myth’

A Sydney shark expert has gone to town on the NSW and Queensland governments, accusing them of manipulating public perception in an effort to drum up support for shark nets and saying none of the available scientific evidence points to them being effective.

Great white sharks will never be held captive in aquariums – sad reason why

The first time I visited Miami Seaquarium  was a magical experience. I was completely captivated by the impressive animals and amazing shows – something that would forever shape my perspective on ocean creatures. But over the years, and with more reflection, I’ve also started to think about the challenges and ethical questions that come with keeping large marine animals in captivity. One question that’s always intrigued me is why we rarely see a…