When Elasmodiver was originally loaded onto the web in 2002 it was intended to be a simple shark and ray field guide showcasing the species of elasmobranches that divers and snorkelers could expect to encounter. Responding to requests for more information, Elasmodiver's mandate expanded to include more specialized shark and ray content in areas such as: biology and behavior, photography, diving, conservation, evolution, and taxonomy. Although some of the content has become quite technical in nature, the site remains geared to the general public.