Great White Shark

Great White Shark

Carcharodon carcharias

Vulnerable
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DESCRIPTION

The Great White Shark is the largest known predatory fish, characterized by its torpedo-shaped body, conical snout, and large, serrated triangular teeth. It is an apex predator found in temperate and tropical waters worldwide, playing a crucial role in marine ecosystems. This species exhibits regional endothermy, allowing it to maintain a body temperature higher than the surrounding water, which aids in its active predatory lifestyle.

Max Length 6.4 m
Max Weight 3230 kg
Lifespan 30 - 70 years
Habitat Coastal zone, deep water, and open water
Depth Range 0 - 1875 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Cathemeral
Social Behavior Solitary
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Great White Shark

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely

Other destinations to spot Great White Shark

Range

Where Great White Shark has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Great White Shark

Where can you see the Great White Shark?

The Great White Shark can be seen at 8 dive destinations in South Africa, Mexico, Australia, and Ecuador. The best spots include Cape Town (South Africa), False Bay (South Africa), Guadalupe Island (Mexico), Phillip Island (Australia), and Baja California Sur (Mexico).

What is the best time to see the Great White Shark?

Sightings of the Great White Shark peak at different times depending on the destination: Cape Town from May to September, False Bay from April to June and from September to December, Guadalupe Island from August to November, and Baja California Sur from March to May.

Where can you see the Great White Shark in South Africa?

In South Africa, you can see the Great White Shark at Cape Town, False Bay, and Protea Banks.

Where can you see the Great White Shark in Mexico?

In Mexico, you can see the Great White Shark at Guadalupe Island, Baja California Sur, and Revillagigedo Islands.

Where can you see the Great White Shark in Australia?

In Australia, you can see the Great White Shark at Phillip Island.

How big does the Great White Shark get?

The Great White Shark can reach up to 6.4 m in length and 3230 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Great White Shark live in?

The Great White Shark is found in these habitats: coastal zone, deep water, and open water.

How deep does the Great White Shark live?

The Great White Shark lives from the surface down to 1875 m.

What does the Great White Shark eat?

Feeds on other animals, from fish to crustaceans or molluscs depending on the species.

When is the Great White Shark most active?

Active in irregular bursts around the clock, by day and by night alike. There is no single best hour to look for it.

Does the Great White Shark live in groups?

No. The Great White Shark is mostly solitary and is usually seen on its own.

How long does the Great White Shark live?

The Great White Shark lives 30 to 70 years.

What is the conservation status of the Great White Shark?

The Great White Shark is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Great White Shark. Spotted something that looks off?

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