Evidence before excitement.

Source hierarchy

1. Peer-reviewed research and original datasets
2. Government science agencies and university museums
3. Recognized scientific and conservation organizations
4. Responsible secondary reporting that links to original work

Evidence labels

Measured / observed

Recorded directly with an identifiable method, instrument or field observation.

Modeled

Calculated from anatomy, physics, chemistry or statistical assumptions rather than directly tested.

Estimated / reported

Best represented by a range, probability or credible record with meaningful limits.

Synthesis

A plain-language conclusion assembled from multiple authoritative references rather than one experiment.

Maximum does not mean normal

Exceptional records are interesting, but they can distort a reader’s mental picture. When possible, TuffShark separates typical adult ranges, verified specimens and historical reports.

Publication review

Before publication, a page should have a clear reader question, traceable sources, wording that distinguishes fact from inference and links to related TuffShark material. Ocean-zone boundaries and pressure calculations state their simplifying assumptions. A tool result generated from a shared dataset is identified as a tool result rather than presented as a separately researched article.

Originality and image rights

TuffShark does not copy photographs or illustrations from search results or unrelated websites. Images are original, properly licensed or public domain, and original diagrams are labeled as diagrams rather than specimens. Source links support the science; they do not imply permission to reuse a source’s artwork.

AI assistance

AI may help organize drafts, code tools and create layouts, but it is not cited as evidence. Scientific claims must trace to identifiable publications or authoritative institutions, and TuffShark remains responsible for the published result.

Advertising and affiliates

Advertising and affiliate relationships are kept separate from scientific conclusions. Commercial links do not change evidence labels, and sponsored material will be disclosed when applicable.

Corrections

Science changes and errors happen. Material corrections update the page, identify the replacement or additional source and refresh the verification date. Send source suggestions and correction requests to TuffShark1@gmail.com.