They’re older than the dinosaurs, they’ve survived four mass extinctions, and yet today, in the wake of climate change, pollution, and commercial fishing, sharks are endangered. As an apex predator, this steep decline in sharks also has massive ramifications for marine ecosystems and the economy more broadly, and because sharks don’t produce offspring at nearly the levels of other fish, it’s very difficult to help shark populations get back on track. Today, we explore what challenges face sharks, why sharks are important, and how we can support them moving forward. With special guest Dr. Jodie Rummer: Associate Professor of Marine Biology at James Cook University. 
The Sweaty Penguin is presented by Peril and Promise: a public media initiative from The WNET Group in New York, reporting on the issues and solutions around climate change. You can learn more at pbs.org/perilandpromise. 
Support the show and unlock exclusive merch, bonus content, and more for as little as $5/month at patreon.com/thesweatypenguin.