The Insane Biology of: The Great White Shark

Great white sharks maintain approximately 50 exposed teeth arranged in rows, with six additional rows behind at different developmental stages. A single shark replaces around 30,000 teeth over its lifetime.

Great white sharks generate bite forces exceeding 18,000 Newtons according to 3D computer analysis of jaw mechanics, ranking second only to orcas among living animals and competing with saltwater crocodiles (measured at 16,400 Newtons).

Great white sharks possess entire skeletons made of cartilage rather than bone, a fundamental characteristic distinguishing them from bony fish and providing crucial locomotion advantages.

Great white sharks employ thunniform swimming—generating power through the caudal fin rather than whole-body undulation. This swimming style distinguishes them from most fish and contributes to their efficiency.

Great white shark muscles comprise over 90% white (anaerobic) fibers despite undertaking massive migrations spanning thousands of kilometers. This contradicts expectations for long-distance swimmers.

Great white sharks maintain stomach temperatures around 26.2°C despite fluctuating cold ambient water temperatures, revealing unexpected warm-bloodedness in a fish. Scientists discovered this by comparing internal stomach thermometers against external water temperature readings.