Gallery Trail: Sharks

Sharks have intrigued humans for as long as we have explored the oceans. The terrifying monster from the movie Jaws is what many might imagine when they think of these animals, but they are far more fascinating and complex than their depiction in popular culture might imply. Did you know, for example, that there is a shark that eats seagrass? Or that some sharks can sense Earth's magnetic field? 

Presented by Desjardins Financial Group, Sharks is a family-friendly exhibition that invites you to uncover fresh perspectives, groundbreaking research, and the astounding diversity of this ancient group of fishes.

Visitors will delve into the anatomy, behaviour, and history of sharks, from familiar favourites like tiger sharks and great whites to lesser-known species like the dwarf lanternshark—a tiny, light-producing marvel small enough to hold in your hand.

Through dozens of interactives and life-sized models, including a life-size head of the huge extinct Megalodon, join us for a unique look at these magnificent creatures, their habitats, hunting techniques, and the conservation threats that they face.

Use this Gallery Trail with an onsite visit to help structure and record your students’ learning in the exhibition. It is available in multiple formats so you have the option to customize it to suit your students’ needs.

• The Megalodon, which became extinct 3.6 million years ago, had the strongest bite of any known animal, including Tyrannosaurus rex. It was the largest fish ever!
• Sharks continually produce rows of new teeth, so they always have sharp teeth. The fossil record is filled with shark teeth since they lose so many as they are replaced.
• Sharks don’t have a backbone. In fact, they have no bones at all. Their skeletons, including their skulls, are all cartilage.
• Sharks kill about 10 people a year, while people kil ~100 million sharks per year.