The great white shark is one of the most recognizable marine predators. Adults typically measure 4 to 5.5 meters, with some individuals exceeding 6 meters. Females are generally larger than males.
They are found in coastal and offshore waters of temperate and subtropical oceans worldwide. Preferred habitats include areas with abundant seals, sea lions, and other marine mammals, as well as fish-rich zones.
Diet and hunting
Great whites are opportunistic. Younger sharks eat fish and rays; larger adults focus more on marine mammals. They often ambush seals from below, using speed and surprise. Contrary to popular myth, they do not routinely mistake humans for seals, though rare attacks do occur, usually in areas where people and sharks share the water.
They can detect tiny amounts of blood in the water and use electroreception to sense the muscle contractions of prey.
Reproduction and lifespan
Females give birth to live young after a long gestation. Litter size varies. Great whites are slow to mature and have low reproductive rates, which makes populations vulnerable to overfishing and bycatch.
Conservation
The species is listed as Vulnerable. Protections exist in many countries, including bans on targeted fishing, but illegal finning, bycatch, and habitat degradation remain threats. Tagging studies have shown that individuals travel thousands of kilometers, crossing international boundaries.
Despite their fearsome reputation, great whites play an important role in marine ecosystems by helping control populations of seals and other mid-level predators.
