Sharks are a group of large, carnivorous fish known for their sharp teeth and keen sense of smell. They belong to the class Chondrichthyes, which means they have skeletons made of cartilage instead of bone. Sharks are found in oceans worldwide and play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems by controlling the populations of other species. There are over 500 species of sharks, ranging from the small dwarf lanternshark to the massive whale shark. Sharks are apex predators, meaning they are at the top of the food chain and have few natural enemies. Their hunting techniques vary, with some species using speed and agility, while others rely on stealth and ambush tactics.