Ancient underwater volcanic eruptions 93 million years ago, along with a surge in carbon dioxide levels and ocean temperatures, drove the evolution of modern-day sharks into fierce predators.

Research by UC Riverside discovered that these environmental changes influenced the elongation and narrowing of shark fins, resembling airplane wings, for faster swimming speeds in warmer waters.

Sharks evolved longer fins more than 90 million years ago in response to a major ocean temperature spike during a period of global warming.

Open-water sharks adapted to become faster compared to bottom-dwelling sharks.

High temperatures during the Cretaceous period likely led to the extinction of some species, as oxygen levels near the bottom dropped.

The future adaptation of modern sharks remains uncertain as sea temperatures continue to rise rapidly today, with some tropical species already migrating towards cooler waters.

This highlights the impact of temperature on shark evolution and the challenges they face in adapting to rapidly increasing heat.

The study emphasizes the importance of studying and conserving marine species in the face of escalating temperatures.