Impressive Great White Shark surrounded by small fish off the South African coast (00015303)

Description: The majestic Great White Shark, scientifically known as Carcharodon carcharias, crosses the water close to Geyser Rock and Dyer Island off the South African coast. African penguins, cormorants, many other seabirds, and a large colony of South African fur seals inhabit this area. The surface hunter often finds its prey on the water surface. The super-predator Great White Shark with its size, strength, and fearsome jaws is a constant threat to the South African fur seals around Dyer Island and Geyser Rock. The Great White Shark belongs to the mako shark family and has very large gill slits and long pectoral fins. The largest Great White Shark ever caught measured 6.4 meters in length and weighed an estimated 1500 kg. When making surprise attacks from the depths, they accelerate so fast that they sometimes breach out of the water. The jaws of the Great White Shark with their sharp triangular teeth in the upper jaw and pointed serrated teeth in the lower jaw are notorious and dreaded. To catch larger prey, the upper jaw is loose and can be pushed forward. Lost or damaged teeth are effortlessly replaced for a lifetime. The Great White Shark is the top predator in the food chain and plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance in the ocean. Very little is known about their behavior and habitat. The Great White Shark has existed almost unchanged for millions of years and has optimally adapted to its environment. However, there is now a danger of human-driven extinction.

Location: Western Cape, Gansbaai/Dyer Island, South Africa

Date of Capture: 27.07.2004