Shark Finning - Social Studies

What is a Shark Finning? 

Shark Finning is a horrendous act of cutting the fins of sharks, then discarding the rest back in the ocean. Often, the sharks are still alive, though, for some that are thrown back in the ocean, experience and slow and painful death. 

Effects of Shark Finning

Shark Finning seriously damage the environment and the economy because firstly, shark finning is one of the reasons why the shark population is decreasing, not only that, but shark has low reproductive rates, which means, it makes it difficult for the population to go up. 

Did you know that 88 to 100 million sharks die every year? 

Sharks are at the top of the food chain. The reduction of sharks species can disrupt the entire marine ecosystem. When the shark population decrease, it could cause severe ecological consequences due to the leftover preys. 

Shark Fin Soup 

Shark Fin Soup is a popular Chinese delicacy that people consume during major celebrations such as weddings, birthdays, parties, etc. For instance, when a person eats shark fin soup, their image would be seen as someone who is a higher rank, meaning 'rich' and 'powerful'.

Facts: 

• Shark Finning has decreased by 90 per cent in the last 15 years. 
• Shark Finning is a multi-billion dollar industry and some countries in Asia receives a lot of money, which makes it easier for them to access shark fins.
• Sharks are also killed due to their teeth, jaws, cartilage and liver oil. These parts extracted from the sharks are used for cosmetics, medicine, clothing and skincare products.

More Information: 

• https://www.discoverwildlife.com/animal-facts/fish/what-is-shark-finning-and-why-is-it-a-problem/
• https://www.onegreenplanet.org/animalsandnature/7-alarming-facts-about-the-shark-fin-trade/
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shark_finning