For the last 50 years, scientists have used ultrasonic transmitters, known as pingers, to study the behavior of marine organisms. They’ve been used on many species including sharks and rays, bony fishes and invertebrates – and have become an important tool in the discovery of the movements and life history of these species. But the big mystery has always been, can marine mammals hear these signals?

The magnificent basking shark is the second largest fish in the world. While these sharks may be big in size, their populations are becoming small in numbers, earning them the unfortunate distinction of being listed as “vulnerable” on the IUCN red list.

Did you know a whale shark can give birth to 300 shark pups in one litter? Although this may sound impressive, it isn’t enough to make up for the 20 million sharks and rays that are killed in the Gulf of California each year - and recent studies suggest that our friends from the deep may need some help if their species is to survive.

Sharks are one of the most mysterious species in our oceans and are often misunderstood. Let’s dive in and learn more about these sly, stealthy swimmers.

The venomous, yet striking, lionfish is known for its large, feathery fins and lightning-fast reflexes. Their extremely long and separated spines give these fish a unique look and a poisonous sting.

These bottom-dwellers are a species you might not see at first glance, but when you look a little closer, you are able to see their bold markings and cat-like whiskers.

SeaWorld plunges guests into the realm of the shark as part of the parks most daring animal interaction program, Sharks Deep Dive. Participants don wetsuits and a Sea Trek helmet which allows participants to breathe and communicate underwater without scuba equipment- during their close encounter with more than 30 sharks and an array of fish.

Gary Violetta

Aquarium Curator, SeaWorld Orlando