When Did Eugenie Clark Die?
Eugenie Clark died on February 25, 2015. She was an American ichthyologist renowned for her shark research and public science communication. Clark passed away in Sarasota, Florida, at the age of 92, due to complications from pneumonia. This verified status clarifier summarizes key biographical context around her death and enduring contributions to marine science. The timeline below confirms the date and links core milestones to her legacy as an authoritative voice on sharks and underwater exploration.
Confirming the Date of Death
Authoritative sources, including published obituaries and institutional records, confirm February 25, 2015, as the date of death. No credible reports suggest an alternative date. The following table compiles the most relevant verified attributes surrounding this event for quick reference.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of Death | February 25, 2015 | Obituary / Institutional Record |
| Location of Death | Sarasota, Florida, USA | News Report |
| Age at Death | 92 years | Biographical Summary |
| Known Cause | Pneumonia | Family Statement / Media |
| Primary Profession | Marine Biologist, Ichthyologist | Career Biography |
| Public Legacy | Shark research and science communication | Historical Record |
Key Biographical Context
Born on May 4, 1922, in New York City, Eugenie Clark built a career defined by rigorous fieldwork and dispelling myths about shark behavior. She founded the Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, which remains central to marine science outreach. Her publications and public talks shaped how scientists and the public understand shark ecology. The status below clarifies common confusion about timelines and distinguishes her lasting institutional impact from the moment of her passing.
Notable Career Milestones
- Earned a doctorate in zoology from New York University in 1950.
- Conducted pioneering research on shark sensory systems and behavior.
- Founded the Mote Marine Laboratory in 1955, now a key marine research and education center.
- Authored numerous scientific papers and several popular books on marine life.
- Earned widespread recognition as an advocate for science education and ocean conservation.
Clarifying Common Misunderstandings
Some reports may inadvertently blur the timing of her death with earlier milestones or ongoing tributes. It is important to anchor timelines in confirmed records. The table below contrasts the date of death with key earlier career points to make the distinction clear.
| Date or Period | Event | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| May 4, 1922 | Birth | Establishes baseline for biographical chronology |
| 1955 | Founding of Mote Marine Laboratory | Long-term institutional legacy independent of death |
| 1970s–1990s | Major research and media outreach | Established public understanding of shark behavior |
| February 25, 2015 | Date of death | End of her professional life; not an endpoint to her influence |
Legacy and Ongoing Influence
Eugenie Clark’s legacy persists through research programs, educational initiatives, and the continued work of Mote Marine Laboratory. Her death on February 25, 2015, marked the end of her direct participation in science, but her methodologies, publications, and advocacy remain active reference points in marine biology. Understanding when Eugenie Clark died does not diminish the enduring relevance of her contributions; rather, it situates them within a continuous timeline of discovery and public engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions
- On what date did Eugenie Clark die? She died on February 25, 2015.
- Where did she pass away? She passed away in Sarasota, Florida, USA.
- What was the cause of death? Pneumonia complications.
- How old was she at the time of death? She was 92 years old.
- Is her work still relevant today? Yes, her research and the institutions she founded continue to inform marine science and conservation.