Sharks can have bellybuttons – and other facts about their incredible diversity

The first thing that pops into most people’s minds when they think of sharks is of big dumb fish with pointy teeth that are to be greatly feared. But as someone who spends their days studying these creatures, I know just how wrong that image is. For one, thing the diversity of sharks is astounding. The differences between species can even make it seem like some of these animals are barely related.