Great White Shark
The great white shark, Carcharodon carcharias, is an apex predator of the ocean. With its sleek, torpedo-like body and stark white underbelly, it commands the sea. Known for its powerful jaws and keen sense of smell, it is vital for marine health by controlling prey populations.
1110.0 - 2240.0 kg
Weight
17 years
Age of Sexual Maturity
Vulnerable
Conservation Status
Decreasing
Population Trend
Characteristics
Carcharodon carcharias, commonly known as the great white shark, is a large mackerel shark found in coastal surface waters of all the major oceans. Notable for its size, it can grow up to 20 feet long and weigh over 2,000 kilograms. Its torpedo-shaped body, powerful tail, and serrated teeth make it a formidable predator. The great white plays a crucial role in marine ecosystems by maintaining the balance of species populations.
Distribution Range of the Great White Shark
Carcharodon carcharias, commonly known as the great white shark, is found in coastal and offshore waters across the globe. Its native range includes all major oceanic regions, particularly in temperate and subtropical waters. Key areas of distribution include the coasts of Australia, South Africa, the northeastern United States, California, and the Mediterranean Sea. It is also found in the waters around Japan, New Zealand, and Chile.
Great White Shark's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
Great white sharks inhabit a variety of marine environments, ranging from nearshore coastal regions to the open ocean. They are primarily found in temperate waters but can also be present in cooler and warmer regions, depending on prey availability and migratory patterns. These sharks are known to frequent areas with rich marine biodiversity including rocky reefs, kelp forests, and the continental shelf.
Ecological Niche
As apex predators, great white sharks play a crucial role in marine ecosystems. They occupy the top of the food chain and are primarily piscivorous, preying on fish, marine mammals such as seals and sea lions, and occasionally sea turtles. Their presence helps maintain the balance of marine life by controlling the populations of their prey, which in turn supports the health of ocean ecosystems.
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