Great White Shark

Carcharodon carcharias

Vulnerable

The great white shark is one of the most iconic and formidable predators in the ocean. Known for its powerful build and sharp teeth, this apex predator can grow up to 6 meters (20 feet) in length and weigh over 1,100 kilograms (2,425 pounds). Its body is streamlined for efficient swimming, with a conical snout and large, triangular dorsal fin that often protrudes above the water's surface. The great white shark's coloration is a distinctive gray on top and white underneath, providing camouflage from both prey and predators. These sharks are known for their acute senses, particularly their ability to detect electrical fields produced by other animals, which aids in hunting. Great white sharks are solitary creatures, though they may be seen in groups when feeding on large prey. They are known for their breaching behavior, where they leap out of the water to catch seals and other marine mammals. Despite their fearsome reputation, great white sharks are crucial for maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems by controlling the populations of other marine species.

Quick Facts

Habitat: Coastal Waters
Diet: Carnivore

Fun Facts

Great white sharks can detect a single drop of blood in 25 gallons of water, making them incredible hunters!
These sharks can leap out of the water, a behavior known as 'breaching,' to catch fast-moving prey like seals.
Great whites have a special organ called the 'ampullae of Lorenzini' that allows them to sense the electric fields of other animals.
Despite their fierce reputation, great white sharks are curious creatures and often investigate unfamiliar objects with gentle nudges.
They can swim at speeds of up to 35 miles per hour, making them one of the fastest shark species in the ocean.
Great white sharks can go weeks without eating after a big meal, thanks to their slow metabolism.
These sharks have a unique way of keeping warm in cold waters: they use a special network of blood vessels to retain heat, unlike most other fish.

Test Your Knowledge

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What is a notable behavior of great white sharks when hunting?
What is the maximum recorded length of a great white shark?
Which of the following is a major threat to the conservation of great white sharks?