A fascinating Great White Shark off the coast of South Africa: A legendary sea creature (00015305)

Description: The majestic Great White Shark, also known as Carcharodon carcharias, gracefully swims through the waters off the coast of South Africa. On the prowl for food, it navigates the vicinity of Geyser Rock and Dyer Island, home to a plethora of marine life including African penguins, cormorants, and South African fur seals. A surface hunter, the Great White Shark uses its impressive size, strength, and fearsome jaws to hunt the seals. Belonging to the mako shark family, it is characterized by its large gill slits and long pectoral fins. Some individuals can grow up to 6.4 meters in length and weigh 1500 kg. With a surprise attack from the depths, the Great White Shark can accelerate so fast that it breaches the water surface. Its infamous jaws with sharp teeth in the upper jaw and needle-like teeth in the lower jaw make it a feared predator of the seas. To capture larger prey, the shark's upper jaw can be thrust forward, and lost teeth are easily replaced. As a top predator, the Great White Shark plays a crucial role in the ocean's ecosystem, contributing to the preservation of ecological balance. Despite its impressive appearance and adaptation to its environment, the Great White Shark is currently facing significant threats due to human impact.

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

Date of Capture: 29.07.2004