Carcharodon carcharias
Hierarchy of Classification:
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Chondrichthyes
Order: Lamniformes
Family: Lamnidae
Genus: Carcharodon
Species: carcharias
Even though we depict these massive creatures as dangerous killers, in recent studies scientist have begun to show the distinction between a harmful vicious species and a curious misunderstood being. The research shows that of the annual one hundred plus shark attacks worldwide Great Whites are accountable for one-third to one-half of them. Even though this might seem like a great number the statistics also show that of the shark attacks, only a few are actually fatal. This might not seem significant but what we don't understand is that these attacks are due to curiosity. In most of these cases the shark will bite the victim and then release them. They call this "sample biting." What we can take from this information is the idea that humans are not actually the main course for these large mammals. This doesn't however mean that rare occasions will not occur and shark attacks won't happen anymore but the idea is to stay relaxed if you ever do come into contact with this animal. Of the largest predatory fish in the world, Great White Shark on average are around fifteen feet in length but have been known to exceed twenty feet in length and weigh up to five thousand pounds. Their upper bodies are grey in order to blend in with the rocky ledges of the sea floor. The name Great White Shark comes from the bleach white color of their underbellies. They have many fins and a large powerful tail to propel them through the waters at rates as fast as fifteen miles per hour. The mouths of these animals are lined with up to three hundred razor sharp teeth that shred their prey. Along with their teeth, these creatures have an amazing sense of smell that helps them detect their prey as well. The animals they usually prey on include sea lions, seals, small toothed whales, and even sea turtles, and carrion.
Viegas, J. (2011, 12 04). Animals: Nat geo wild. Retrieved from http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/fish/great-white-shark/
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