An estimated 73 million sharks are killed each year for use in shark fin soup. Because the fin is considered the most valuable part of the shark, fishermen often slice it off and return the shark to the water to bleed to death. In addition to the disturbing nature of this (illegal) practice, shark fishing has also led some species to near extinction.

Shark fins are considered a delicacy in Chinese culture, and currently sell for up to $500 a pound in many stores along the streets of New York’s Chinatown. But maybe not for much longer.