Student Article
The Dangers of Shark Finning: Why It’s Harmful to Sharks and the Oceans
Finning (noun): The act of cutting off a shark’s fins, often while it is still alive.
Luxury (noun): Something expensive or rare that people want to enjoy, but not essential for survival.
Status (noun): A person’s social or economic position, often shown by their wealth or achievements.
Predator (noun): An animal that hunts other animals for food.
Shark finning is a harmful practice that is threatening shark populations and the balance of ocean ecosystems.
What is shark finning?
Sharks have been swimming in the oceans for millions of years, playing a crucial role in keeping ocean ecosystems healthy. However, shark finning, a practice where sharks are killed for their fins, is threatening their survival. Fishermen cut off the fins of live sharks and throw the rest of the animal back into the ocean. These sharks die slowly and painfully, all for the sake of shark fin soup, a dish considered a luxury in some parts of the world, especially in China.
Why do people want shark fins?
Shark fin soup has been consumed for centuries, but as the Chinese economy has grown, so has the demand for this dish. Today, it’s seen as a symbol of wealth and status, making it a popular dish at weddings, business dinners, and other special events. Unfortunately, this has led to the killing of more than 73 million sharks annually, pushing many species to the brink of extinction.
Why sharks matter
Sharks are not just important for their meat or fins; they are essential for maintaining the health of the ocean. As top predators, sharks help keep other species in check, ensuring that the balance of marine life remains stable. Without sharks, this balance could be upset, leading to negative consequences for the entire ocean ecosystem.
What’s being done to help?
Governments are working on laws to protect sharks, and the consumption of shark fin soup is slowly decreasing in some areas. Still, more action is needed to protect these important animals.
© Mark Carwardine / Our Media
Finning (noun): The act of cutting off a shark’s fins, often while it is still alive.
Luxury (noun): Something expensive or rare that people want to enjoy, but not essential for survival.
Status (noun): A person’s social or economic position, often shown by their wealth or achievements.
Predator (noun): An animal that hunts other animals for food.