Abstract
THIS small volume is admirable in its simplicity and interest, the secret of its success being the author‘s undoubted linking, if not affection, for these huge sharks which are regarded with horror and disgust by many. The subject is approached with respect for the shark and admiration for its wonderful power and form, so perfectly fitted for its mode of life. Certainly a dogfish swimming in an aquarium tank is an unforgettable sight. The numerous illustrations are good, both plates and text figures, and the various chapters cover much ground : classification, morphology, anatomy, food habits and ‘les mangeurs d‘homme', freshwater sharks, pilots and remoras, history, and shark fisheries and utilization. As man-eaters the large sharks are apparently much less dangerous than is usually supposed. They undoubtedly eat man, especially in certain regions, but they are easily frightened, and it has been stated that they are the most cowardly of all animals that fly, run or swim. This is No. 7 of a series of "Histoires naturelles", and is thoroughly recommended to all lovers of natural history.
La vie des requins
Par P. Budker. (Histoires naturelles, 7.) Pp. 278 + 22 plates. (Paris: Libr. Gallimard, 1947.) 325 francs.
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La vie des requins. Nature 163, 6 (1949). https://doi.org/10.1038/163006c0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/163006c0