Marine Life & Conservation

Book Review: Shark The Illustrated Biography

Published

1 month ago

April 14, 2025

Team Scubaverse

Shark: The Illustrated Biography by Daniel Abel and Sophie A. Maycock

shark

This book is nothing like any of the other, many, shark books I have adorning my shelves. This is evident right from turning the first page and reading the chapter titles, which include Roots, Sharks in the Womb, The Wonder Years… Delve further and you will see that this book is adorned with gorgeous watercolour illustrations. It is written as a biography of the whole group of over 500 species. By passionate devotees!

The book really stands out from the crowd. Whilst the reader will learn all about the life cycle, evolution, habitats and threats of these charismatic creatures, they do so in a way that really engages the reader. It tells the story of sharks with more than a dash of literary flair.

One of my favourite chapters covered sharks in human culture. How many cultures celebrate and venerate sharks. Although I was less enthused with the myth busting section of the book, which only seemed to serve to remind the reader of the usual negative media spin. I loved that this book shone a light on some of the more unusual species that rarely get the attention they deserve. I will enjoy picking this book up over and over again. Using it as a reference as well as something to peruse at leisure.

Any shark enthusiast will enjoy this book. Its 224 pages is packed with information and there are 100 colour illustrations to enjoy. This biography of sharks takes you from the prehistoric sharks all the way up to the present day species. And it is a joy to read.

What the publisher says:

No two species of shark have the same life history, yet these magnificent creatures share many things in common. This one-of-a-kind narrative biography brings together a wide array of species from habitats around the globe, examining the biology, ecology, and behavior of sharks as well as their cultural role in human history. Written by two experienced shark educators, scientists, and conservationists, Shark: The Illustrated Biography blends engaging profiles of selected species with captivating illustrations to offer an unparalleled exploration of the life and times of the shark.

Features a beautiful and informative array of watercolors
Tells the biographical story of the shark using the life histories of representative species, from birth and early family life to adolescence and the adult years
Discusses sharks of all kinds, such as Shortfin Makos, Sandbar Sharks, Spiny Dogfish, Great Whites, Tiger Sharks, Basking Sharks, Angel Sharks, and Great Hammerheads
Covers evolutionary history, distinguishing features, habitats, reproduction, and migration
Examines the role of sharks in art, music, literature, spirituality, and mythology
An essential, must-have reference for shark lovers everywhere

About the Authors:

Daniel C. Abel is professor of marine science at Coastal Carolina University, where his research focuses on shark ecology and physiology. His many books include Sharkpedia and (with R. Dean Grubbs) The Lives of Sharks (both Princeton). Sophie A. Maycock is an independent researcher and science communication writer. Specializing in shark behavior and conservation, she is the UK representative of the Sharks Educational Institute and is the founder of the website SharkSpeak.

Book Details

Publisher: Princeton University Press

Hardcover

Price: £25.00

ISBN: 9780691261676

Published: 25th March, 2025

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Marine Life & Conservation

Raising Awareness for Scuttle the Cuttle – A Global First in Tackling Microplastic Pollution

Published

1 day ago

May 19, 2025

Team Scubaverse

Addressing the global crisis of ocean plastic pollution, a new innovation is turning the tide—by placing real-world environmental action in the hands of children. Scuttle the Cuttle, a microplastic-collecting tool designed specifically for young users, has been launched as a practical and inspiring way to involve families in beach cleanups.

Crafted entirely from recycled ocean plastic, Scuttle is a cuttlefish-shaped combination of bucket and sieve. Its engaging design, sustainability credentials, and focus on education make it more than just a toy—it’s a tool for change.

scuttle the cuttle

Designed for Impact

Scuttle’s core purpose is to help remove microplastics—plastic particles smaller than 5mm—from beaches. With a mesh size of 2.8mm, Scuttle can collect small plastic fragments and nurdles before they degrade further. This addresses a critical but often overlooked part of the plastic pollution problem.

Built for Young Eco-Heroes

Scuttle is ergonomically designed for both children and adults. Lightweight, durable, and easy to carry, it allows even the youngest users to contribute meaningfully to beach cleanups. Its approachable design turns environmental action into a fun and empowering activity for children and families.

Circular by Design

From production to end-of-life, Scuttle reflects a strong commitment to the circular economy. Made from 100% recycled ocean plastic and fully recyclable, it is manufactured with long-term use in mind. The product not only removes waste from the environment but also repurposes existing waste in its construction, reducing environmental impact across its lifecycle.

Community and Collaboration

In addition to its environmental function, Scuttle is part of a broader movement to build awareness and encourage local partnerships. It supports responsible sourcing, local collaborations, and community-driven conservation efforts.

Scuttle is now available for purchase and is positioned as the first product of its kind focused specifically on the collection of microplastics through kid-friendly, hands-on cleanup.

For more information about Scuttle the Cuttle, visit odysseyinnovation.com/pages/scuttle.

Marine Life & Conservation

I.CARE, SSI Blue Oceans, and Mares Team Up to Remove Over 36,000 Pounds of Debris from the Florida Keys

Published

3 days ago

May 17, 2025

Team Scubaverse

The 3rd Annual I.CARE Trash Derby has come to a successful close, delivering a powerful message of community-driven conservation. In partnership with SSI Blue Oceans, Mares, and several other industry leaders, I.CARE once again led an inspiring grassroots effort to restore and protect the marine environment of the Florida Keys.

This year’s Trash Derby broke records, drawing support from more than 900 participants—including divers, boaters, and conservation advocates—who collectively removed an impressive 36,459 pounds of marine debris. Over a two-day period, teams worked on land, along shorelines, and at reef sites both above and below the water, making a meaningful contribution to the region’s ecological health.

“I am so proud of everyone involved in last week’s I.CARE Trash Derby,” said Mike Goldberg, Co-Founder of I.CARE. “This level of success comes from the passion and hard work of hundreds of people who care about our oceans, reefs, and local communities. I’m filled with gratitude.”

Recognizing Top Contributors: From Trash to Triumph

The event featured competition across three categories—Land & Shore, Private Boat, and Dive Operator—awarding teams based on the amount of debris collected per person. Additional special recognitions included the most monofilament retrieved and the most unusual item found. Congratulations to the standout teams of 2025:

Land & Shore Division:

Tired of Tires – 1,128.75 lbs/person
DerSno – 930.7 lbs/person
KnotaYacht – 124.2 lbs/person

Private Boat Division:

Triple Crown – 1,076.83 lbs/person
Fisherman & the Mermaid – 735.95 lbs/person
Dumpster Diving Divas – 572.875 lbs/person

Dive Operator Division:

Quiescence Diving – 430.6 lbs/person (average)
Key Dives – 141.3 lbs/person (average)
Captain’s Corner – 83.2 lbs/person (average)

Special Awards:

Most Monofilament Collected: Conch Republic Divers (26.8 lbs)
Most Unique Item Found: Bilge Buddies

Celebrating Conservation with Community and Education

The weekend concluded with the Trash Derby Festival at Founders Park in Islamorada. Attendees enjoyed live music, food, and sustainability-focused vendors, all centered around marine conservation. The festival also provided opportunities to connect with environmental organizations and celebrate the participants’ achievements.

“The energy and dedication from everyone involved was incredible,” said Rachael Steidley, SSI’s North America Marketing Manager. “This event goes beyond collecting trash—it’s about building a movement and inspiring conservation on a global scale.”

Looking Ahead to 2026: Raising the Bar

Plans are already underway for the 4th Annual I.CARE Trash Derby, with organizers calling on dive pros, boaters, and ocean advocates to help set an even bigger record next year.

To get involved or learn more about how you or your dive shop can participate in 2026, visit www.icaretrashderby.com or contact I.CARE at info@icareaboutcoral.org.

Let’s keep making waves for the planet—one pound at a time.