There is no animal on earth more vilified than the shark. Pop culture references and annual, over-hyped reports of attacks on swimmers or surfers have put sharks on the top of the list of the world's most feared living things. We as humans fear the unknown and so resort to killing.

Sharks existed before there were dinosaurs and they pre-date humans by millions of years. Yet, in a relatively short period of time, humans and their technological arsenal have driven most shark populations to the verge of extinction. Sharks are the top predator in the ocean and are vital to its ecosystem. The rapid reduction of sharks is disrupting the ocean's equilibrium.

Shark fin soup is a delicacy reserved for the wealthy on special occasions and it has been part of Chinese culture for centuries. The sharks are caught, their fins are then sliced off of their bodies while they are still alive and the rest is often tossed back into the ocean. The sharks then drown as they cannot move. HOW CRUEL CAN YOU GET? For years, only the rich mostly in Hong Kong, Taiwan and Singapore consumed it, so the impact on the overall shark population was negligible. Over the last decade, the exploding middle class in China has changed the fate of the shark. With an unprecedented number of people making more money than ever, the demand for all things that signal an improvement in status is gargantuan. The ability to serve and consume shark fin soup is among the most revered of activities, because it signifies that one has made it. Sharks are therefor being killed left right and centre! IT NEEDS TO STOP, NOW!

Over 100 million sharks are killed each year and the number keeps increasing. Say no to shark-fin soup and protect the oceans top predetor. Have any of you seen the Sharkwater trailer and movie? Go check it out in my videos. It is one of the most powerful things I have ever seen. I really think the key to all this is awareness through things such as Sharkwater. We need to educate people about sharks and change the perception of them as mindless killing machines.

You can show your support by joining organizations such as Sharklife and the Shark Trust. By just signing petitions you are helping keep shark off the menu. Please show your support. I have! I have supported Sharklife for over 3 years now and they are truly moving forward in terms of shark research and conservation. Do your bit!