Sharks Like Bubbles Too | Matthew Ware | TEDxNSU

Our perception of sharks as terrifying eating machines is among the most persistent stigmas of nature. Our fear of these beautiful creatures has spawned awful legislation and heinous fishing practices. Thankfully, we are beginning to understand their true ecological value as top predators of the seas. Their economic force is also growing, as armies of tourists descend on aquariums, while SCUBA training allows individuals to witness sharks firsthand in their natural environment. These are powerful tools to combat the misunderstanding of sharks and help us remember that we are visitors in their world.

Matthew Ware earned a B.S. in Biology from Christopher Newport University in 2012. He is currently pursuing an M.S. in Marine Biology and Marine Environmental Science at NSU’s Oceanographic Center studying coral reef restoration in the Upper Florida Keys. While at the Oceanographic Center, Ware has served as a peer mentor, SGA treasurer, and specialist for the Broward County Sea Turtle Conservation Program. For the past year, he has also worked for NSU’s Academic Dive Program as an instructor and a divemaster, a rewarding position that enables him to share his love of the ocean and advocate for its preservation.