Shortly before the camera turns, the Great White Shark (Carcharodon carcharias) veers towards the water surface. The reason for this remains unclear. (00015502)

Description: The Great White Shark, scientifically known as Carcharodon carcharias, is one of the most fascinating and feared creatures of the sea. Cruising the waters off Geyser Rock and Dyer Island in South Africa, an impressive large Great White Shark can be spotted. African penguins, cormorants, and a large colony of South African fur seals inhabit this area. The surface hunter often finds its prey at the water's surface. The Great White Shark, with its size, strength, and fearsome jaws, poses a constant threat to the South African fur seals. Belonging to the mako shark family, the Great White Shark boasts very large gill slits and long pectoral fins. In a surprise attack from the depths, they accelerate so quickly that they sometimes breach the water. 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 thrust forward. Lost or damaged teeth are effortlessly replaced throughout their lifetime. The Great White Shark is the apex predator of the food chain, playing a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the ocean. Little is known about their behavior and habitat. Existing almost unchanged for millions of years, the Great White Shark has optimally adapted to its environment. However, there is now a danger of human-induced extinction.

Location: Western Cape, , South Africa

Date of Capture: 27.07.2004