Majestic Great White Shark swims near Geyser Rock through the sunlight (00015322)

Description: Great White shark/Carcharodon carcharias A majestic Great White Shark swims through the clear, sunlit water near Geyser Rock and Dyer Island off the South African coast. African penguins, cormorants (or sea ravens), many other seabirds, and a large colony of South African fur seals (Arctocephalus pusillus) 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, poses a constant threat to the South African fur seals around Dyer Island and Geyser Rock. The largest Great White Shark ever caught measured 6.4 meters in length and weighed an estimated 1500 kg. When launching a surprise attack from the depths, they accelerate so rapidly that they sometimes breach the water surface. The jaws of the Great White Shark, with sharp triangular teeth in the upper jaw and pointed cusps in the lower jaw, are notorious and dreaded. To catch larger prey, the upper jaw is loose (or movable) and can be protruded forward. Lost or damaged teeth are replaced effortlessly throughout their lifetime. The Great White Shark tops the food chain and plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the ocean. Little is known about their behavior and habitat. The Great White Shark has remained virtually unchanged for millions of years and has adapted optimally to its environment. However, there is a danger of human-induced extinction.

Location: Western Cape, , South Africa

Date of Capture: 29.07.2004