2015 set a record for shark attacks — but humans killed far more sharks

2015 was a record-setting year for shark attacks worldwide, but sharks face a much larger threat from humans.

A record-high 98 unprovoked shark attacks were reported last year, according to the Florida Museum of Natural History. 

The museum released its Yearly Worldwide Shark Attack Summary on Monday, reporting that the U.S. and Australia had the highest number of shark attacks last year.

The U.S. reported a total of 59 attacks — 30 of which were in Florida. Australia reported 18 attacks.

Of the 98 unprovoked attacks, six were fatal. Three of those deaths were tourists on vacation in Australia, Egypt and New Caledonia.

Researchers estimate humans kill about 100 million sharks each year

However, according to the study, the record high does not necessarily mean an increase in the rate of shark attacks. 

“Sharks plus humans equals attacks," George Burgess, curator of the International Shark Attack File, told University of Florida News. "As our population continues to rapidly grow and shark populations slowly recover, we’re going to see more interactions."

The previous record was 88 unprovoked attacks in 2000, according to the museum. Of the attacks that year, 11 were fatal.

Beyond the 98 unprovoked attacks, another 36 provoked attacks were reported.

And humans do much more than provoke a few dozen sharks. Researchers have estimated that humans kill about 100 million sharks each year, either for their fins and meat or incidentally through fishing.

There are 82 species of shark or ray currently on the Red List of Endangered Species.

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