Potent Great White Sharks
Posted in Wildlife A-Z | April 7, 2010 | Comment NowIn reality the great white shark is not as dangerous as in our imaginations. Recently, there has been a lot of research on these elusive predators. The great white shark is no longer viewed as a mean killing machine.
Nearly one-third to one-half of the total shark attacks can be attributed to great whites. Most of these attacks are not fatal. Great white sharks are known to be naturally curious. They engage in what is known as ‘sample biting’ by releasing their victims. This cannot be very comforting news, but it does indicate that humans are not on the menu list of the great white shark.
Great white sharks are the largest predatory fish on the planet. Their average length is 15 feet. There have been fish specimens exceeding 20 feet and weighing nearly 5000 pounds.
Their upper bodies are comprised of slate-gray. This makes it easier to blend with rocky nature of the sea floor. Their name is derived from the perfectly white underbellies. Their bodies are streamlined and shaped like torpedoes. The tail of the great white shark is extremely powerful, which allow them to propel at a speed in excess of 15 mph. They can breach like whales by leaving the water completely. They tend to attack prey from the underneath.
Great white sharks are master predators. Their mouths are lined with nearly 300 serrated and triangular teeth. These teeth are arranged in numerous rows. They have a wonderful sense of smell that helps in the detection of prey. They are equipped with organs that can detect the electromagnetic fields generated by potential prey. Sea lions, seals, small toothed whales, sea turtles and carrion are the primary prey for the sharks.
Great white sharks are found in coastal waters of the world. Their exact population remains unknown. Researchers agree that the numbers are constantly declining due to extensive fishing. They are also accidentally caught in nets.
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