^w^ Observation of sharks in their own environment is vital to scientists trying to understand these animals.
^w^ Sharks live in a concealing medium and do not necessarily cluster in one place, so observation can be quite tedious.
^w^ Field work is dangerous and the living conditions are harsh. However, the people who do this work find it extremely rewarding.
^w^ Research is conducted all over the world, mostly supported by universities and government grants. Much of the work is done by researchers trained in the United States.
