This comprehensive introduction to sharks and their biology and behaviour is illustrated with over 100 of the best shark photographs from around the world. Sharks have been worshipped by ancient civilizations, reviled by seafarers, consumed by gourmets and studied by marine biologists. Their powerful, streamlined bodies inspire ship and submarine designers and their immune system may help in fighting diseases. Yet, it is their formidable jaws and teeth that invoke fear that turns any shark attack into frontpage news. Michael Bright's exploration of the latest findings from research groups worldwide reveals sharks to be much more than just mindless killing machines. It shows how sharks are the product of over 450 million years of evolution, honed to perfection as some of the sea's most sophisticated predators. Spectacular photographs help turn a creature that scared us into one that inspires.