cartilaginous
Great White Shark
Carcharodon carcharias
Torpedo-shaped body, prominent dorsal fin, large crescent-shaped caudal fin, distinctive gill slits, and rows of triangular serrated teeth.
- Habitat
- Coastal and offshore waters of temperate and subtropical…
- Size & weight
- Typically 4 to 6 meters in length and weighing up to 2,0…
- Diet
- Marine mammals, fish, and seabirds, typically hunted usi…
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Physical characteristics
Torpedo-shaped body, prominent dorsal fin, large crescent-shaped caudal fin, distinctive gill slits, and rows of triangular serrated teeth.
Habitat & distribution
Coastal and offshore waters of temperate and subtropical oceans worldwide.
Behavior
Solitary hunters, highly migratory, and active throughout the day and night.
Diet
Marine mammals, fish, and seabirds, typically hunted using an ambush predation strategy.
Reproduction
Ovoviviparous, giving birth to live young after a lengthy gestation period.
Ecological role
Apex predator helping to maintain the balance of marine ecosystems.
Similar species
Mako shark, distinguished by slimmer body and lack of broad triangular teeth.
Identification tips
Look for the large size, contrasting dark grey back and white underbelly, and distinctive dorsal fin.
Interesting facts
Great white sharks can detect tiny electromagnetic fields generated by other animals in the water.