Great White Shark: The Ocean's Apex Predator
The great white shark (Carcharodon carcharias), also known as the white shark or white pointer, is one of the ocean's most powerful and iconic predators. Found in coastal and offshore waters worldwide, these sharks can grow up to 6 meters (20 feet) long and weigh over 2,000 kilograms (4,400 pounds). Known for their conical snouts, serrated teeth, and stark white underbellies, great whites are masters of stealth, using countershading to blend into their surroundings while hunting.
Capable of swimming at speeds of 25 km/h (16 mph) and breaching the water when attacking prey, they primarily feed on seals, dolphins, and other marine mammals. Despite their fearsome reputation, humans are not their preferred prey, and attacks are often exploratory "test bites."
Fun fact: Great whites can live up to 70 years, making them one of the longest-lived cartilaginous fish. They even have a "sixth sense," using special organs to detect the electromagnetic fields of their prey!
