Are sharks going to disappear soon?

Sharks are believed to be one of the oldest existing creatures on planet earth as scientists trace back their origin to 400 million years ago. With environmental deterioration taking place at a rapid pace, the apex predators of the marine ecosystem have found themselves endangered as many species are on the verge of extinction.  In a report published by International Union for Conservation, 17 of 58 shark species are on the verge of extinction. Out of the 17 enlisted endangered species, 6 were categorised as ‘critically endangered’ whereas, 11 species were classified as ‘endangered’ or ‘vulnerable to extinction’. From plastic pollution to commercial and recreational fishing pressure, many reasons have been attributed to the reason behind their declining population. It is high time we take steps to protect the sharks. Without them, the marine ecosystem will lose its balance.