The marvelous and misunderstood world of sharks
2Digest
Jasmine Graham, a marine biologist specializing in small-toothed sharks and hammerheads, joins "On Point" to discuss her new book, "Sharks Don't Sink: Adventures of a Rogue Shark Scientist." Graham recounts her childhood in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where she learned about fish from her family, who were deeply rooted in the Gullah Geechee culture. She shares how a single photograph of a Black woman doing shark research sparked a movement to increase diversity in marine science, leading to the creation of "Minorities in Shark Sciences." Graham also delves into the fascinating world of sharks, explaining their unique adaptations, including their electromagnetic sense, and the threats they face, such as overfishing and bycatch. She emphasizes the importance of local knowledge and community involvement in conservation efforts, particularly in the global south. Graham concludes by addressing the fear of sharks, highlighting that they are not as dangerous as people think and that their role in the ecosystem is crucial.
Outlines
Introduction
This Chapter introduces Jasmine Graham, a marine biologist who specializes in small-toothed sharks and hammerheads. She is also the co-founder and president of the organization, Minorities in Shark Sciences, and has a new book out called "Sharks Don't Sink: Adventures of a Rogue Shark Scientist."
The First Shark Encounter
This Chapter delves into Jasmine Graham's first encounter with a shark, a bonnet head shark, while fishing with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. She describes the experience as life-changing, sparking her passion for shark science and conservation.
The Power of Representation
This Chapter explores the impact of a single photograph of a Black woman doing shark research on Jasmine Graham's life. This image inspired her to create "Minorities in Shark Sciences" to increase diversity in marine science and provide a sense of belonging for underrepresented groups.
Family Roots in the Low Country
This Chapter focuses on Jasmine Graham's family history in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and their deep connection to the ocean through fishing. She describes the Gullah Geechee influence on her upbringing and the importance of understanding where food comes from.
The Impact of Segregation
This Chapter examines the impact of segregation on Jasmine Graham's family and the Black community in Myrtle Beach. She discusses how the history of discrimination has created barriers to access and opportunity, particularly in the realm of science.
The Mystery of the Hammerhead
This Chapter explores the unique shape of hammerhead sharks and the ongoing scientific debate about the purpose of their distinctive heads. Jasmine Graham discusses the various theories, including their role in hunting, sensory perception, and biomechanics.
The Electromagnetic Sense of Sharks
This Chapter delves into the fascinating electromagnetic sense of sharks, explaining how they use their ampule of Lorenzini to detect electrical charges in the water. Jasmine Graham discusses the potential implications of this sense for hammerhead sharks and the ongoing research in this area.
Threats to Shark Populations
This Chapter highlights the major threats to shark populations, including overfishing, bycatch, habitat loss, and climate change. Jasmine Graham emphasizes the importance of sustainable fishing practices and the need to address the global demand for marine-based proteins.
Keywords
Jasmine Graham
Jasmine Graham is a marine biologist, author, and television host. She specializes in small-toothed sharks and hammerheads and is the co-founder and president of the organization, Minorities in Shark Sciences. She is also the host of PBS's "Sharks Unknown with Jasmine Graham." Her new book, "Sharks Don't Sink: Adventures of a Rogue Shark Scientist," explores her journey as a shark scientist and the importance of diversity in science and conservation.
Sharks
Sharks are a group of cartilaginous fish that have existed for over 500 million years. They are known for their distinctive features, such as their cartilaginous skeletons, sharp teeth, and streamlined bodies. Sharks are apex predators in marine ecosystems and play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the food web. However, many shark species are facing threats from overfishing, bycatch, habitat loss, and climate change.
Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS)
Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS) is a non-profit organization founded by Jasmine Graham and Carly Jackson. MISS aims to increase diversity in marine science and provide a sense of belonging for underrepresented groups. The organization works to support communities and stakeholders who are often excluded from conservation efforts, particularly in the global south.
Gullah Geechee
The Gullah Geechee are an African American cultural group who live in the coastal regions of South Carolina and Georgia. Their culture is deeply rooted in the history of slavery and the traditions of West Africa. Gullah Geechee people are known for their unique language, cuisine, and crafts. They have a strong connection to the ocean and have a deep understanding of the natural world.
Overfishing
Overfishing occurs when fish are harvested at a rate faster than they can reproduce, leading to a decline in fish populations. This can have devastating consequences for marine ecosystems, including the loss of biodiversity and the disruption of food webs. Overfishing is a major threat to many shark species, as they are slow-growing and have low reproductive rates.
Bycatch
Bycatch refers to the unintentional capture of non-target species during fishing operations. This can include sharks, dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine animals. Bycatch is a significant problem for shark conservation, as many sharks are killed or injured as a result of being caught in fishing gear.
Sustainable Fishing
Sustainable fishing practices aim to ensure that fish populations are harvested at a rate that allows them to replenish themselves. This involves using fishing methods that minimize bycatch, setting catch limits, and protecting critical habitats. Sustainable fishing is essential for the long-term health of marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of fishing communities.
Conservation
Conservation refers to the protection and management of natural resources, including wildlife, habitats, and ecosystems. Conservation efforts aim to prevent the loss of biodiversity and ensure the long-term sustainability of the natural world. Shark conservation is a critical aspect of marine conservation, as sharks play a vital role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems.
Diversity in Science
Diversity in science refers to the inclusion of people from all backgrounds, including different races, ethnicities, genders, and socioeconomic statuses. Diversity is essential for scientific progress, as it brings a wider range of perspectives, experiences, and ideas to the table. Increasing diversity in science is crucial for addressing the challenges facing the world today, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and global health.
Electromagnetic Sense
The electromagnetic sense is a sensory ability that allows some animals, such as sharks, to detect electrical fields in their environment. This sense is made possible by specialized sensory organs called ampule of Lorenzini, which are filled with a jelly-like substance that conducts electricity. Sharks use their electromagnetic sense to locate prey, navigate, and avoid predators.
Q&A
What inspired Jasmine Graham to create "Minorities in Shark Sciences"?
A single photograph of a Black woman doing shark research sparked a realization for Jasmine Graham that she wasn't alone in her pursuit of marine science. This image, shared during the "Black Birders Week" movement, led to a conversation with other Black women in the field and ultimately the creation of "Minorities in Shark Sciences" to foster a sense of community and support for underrepresented groups in marine science.
What are some of the unique adaptations of sharks?
Sharks have several fascinating adaptations, including their electromagnetic sense, which allows them to detect electrical fields in the water. This sense is made possible by specialized sensory organs called ampule of Lorenzini. Sharks also have dermal denticles, tiny teeth-like structures on their skin that reduce drag and protect them from parasites. Additionally, sharks have remarkable immune systems and healing abilities.
What are the major threats to shark populations?
Shark populations are facing significant threats, including overfishing, bycatch, habitat loss, and climate change. Overfishing occurs when sharks are harvested at a rate faster than they can reproduce, while bycatch refers to the unintentional capture of sharks in fishing gear. Habitat loss and climate change are also contributing to the decline of shark populations.
Why is it important to involve local communities in conservation efforts?
Local communities often have a deep understanding of the natural world and the resources they depend on. Involving them in conservation efforts ensures that these efforts are culturally sensitive, sustainable, and effective. It also empowers local communities to be stewards of their own environment.
Why should people not be afraid of sharks?
Shark attacks are actually very rare, especially considering the number of people who swim in the ocean each year. Sharks are not inherently aggressive towards humans and are more likely to be killed by humans than vice versa. It's important to remember that sharks play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems.
What is the significance of the title "Sharks Don't Sink"?
The title "Sharks Don't Sink" is a metaphor for the importance of perseverance and forward momentum. Sharks, unlike fish with swim bladders, rely on constant movement to stay afloat. Similarly, in life, we must keep moving forward to avoid sinking under the weight of challenges.
How does Jasmine Graham's personal history connect to her work in shark science?
Jasmine Graham's childhood experiences fishing with her family in South Carolina's low country instilled in her a deep connection to the ocean and a respect for the natural world. This connection, combined with her experiences with segregation and the lack of representation in science, fueled her passion for conservation and her desire to increase diversity in marine science.
What is the role of sharks in the ecosystem?
Sharks are apex predators, meaning they are at the top of the food chain. They play a crucial role in regulating the populations of other fish and maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems. Sharks also remove weak, injured, and sick fish, which helps to prevent the spread of disease and maintain the health of the population.
What is the importance of diversity in science?
Diversity in science is essential for scientific progress, as it brings a wider range of perspectives, experiences, and ideas to the table. A diverse scientific community is better equipped to address the complex challenges facing the world today, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and global health.
What is the future of shark conservation?
The future of shark conservation depends on a combination of factors, including reducing overfishing, minimizing bycatch, protecting critical habitats, and addressing climate change. It also requires a shift in public perception of sharks, moving from fear to fascination and understanding their importance in the ecosystem. By working together, scientists, policymakers, and communities can ensure the survival of these ancient and vital creatures.
Show Notes
Sharks are full of secrets, despite being some of the oldest creatures on the planet. Marine biologist Jasmin Graham has spent a decade studying them — and trying to bring more women of color like her into the field.
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