Well camouflaged, the Great White Shark (Carcharodon carcharias) moves through the plankton-rich waters near Geyser Rock. (00015380)

Description: The Great White Shark, scientifically known as Carcharodon carcharias, crosses the waters near Geyser Rock and Dyer Island off the South African coast. Here, African penguins, cormorants, many other seabirds, and a large colony of South African fur seals reside. The surface hunter often finds its prey on the water surface. The Great White Shark with its size, strength, and fearsome jaws is a constant danger to the fur seals around Dyer Island and Geyser Rock. Belonging to the mako shark family, the Great White Shark has very large gill slits and long pectoral fins. The largest specimens ever caught measured 6.4 meters in length and weighed an estimated 1500 kg. The jaws of the Great White Shark with their sharp triangular teeth in the upper jaw and pointed teeth in the lower jaw are notorious and dreaded. To catch larger prey, the upper jaw is movable and can be pushed forward. Lost or damaged teeth are replaced effortlessly 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. There is very little 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 threat that it will be exterminated by us humans.

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

Date of Capture: 06.08.2004