While we were on vacation, we took the kids to the local aquarium. It also happened to be “Shark Week”, for the 21st consecutive year, so the emphasis was on sharks there. There were shark statistics, one being 22 people were injured on the toilet; the same year there were 6 injuries caused by sharks.
There was a large tank that had 3 sharks in it; Pierce loved that part. If you look at a shark up close (preferably with a thick piece of plexiglass in between), you ‘ll see they’re a beautiful fish. They have a silvery-purplish color that changes, like an opal. It’s fascinating. I’d love to touch one (preferably a very small one in a tank). But I see how researchers get so mesmerized by them.
Shark size ranges from 9 inches (pygmy shark) to the ginormous whale shark that grows up to 39 feet! Interestingly enough, the whale shark eats plankton and other tiny fish. Some sharks completely replace each of their teeth every 2 weeks, ensuring they’ll be sharp enough if you happen to stick your arm in its mouth. The life span of most sharks is 20-30 years, while others (like the whale shark) have been known to live 100 years. Sharks can also smell one drop of blood in as much water as an olympic-sized pool can hold.
There was also a petting tank in the aquarium, which is always Gab’s favorite part. There were a couple species of rays, a fish that I can’t remember the name of, and some horseshoe crabs. In a smaller pool, there were sea anemonies, starfish, and hermit crabs. Pierce preferred to look and not touch. Maybe next time.
And, speaking of shark, we went to a great restaurant that served the best shark steaks I’ve ever had. Paul got the same dish and said the same. Gab had never had shark (I guessed she missed the times I cooked it), so I gave her a bite of mine. She was very hesitant, but thought it was delicious, too.
So the next time you’re out in the ocean, and you see a shark coming towards you, rows of teeth bared, open your mouth and take a bite! They’re fantastic creatures 😛
