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Publication Details
AFRICAN RESEARCH NEXUS
SHINING A SPOTLIGHT ON AFRICAN RESEARCH
First observations of young of the year and juvenile great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) scavenging from a whale carcass
Marine and Freshwater Research, Volume 59, No. 7, Year 2008
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Description
Observations of great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) scavenging from cetacean carcasses are rare and have only been reported in the scientific literature for large (>3.5 m total length (TL)) individuals. Between 13 October and 25 November 2006, young of the year and juvenile great white sharks were observed scavenging from the carcass of a humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) in Algoa Bay, South Africa. Although more than one shark scavenged from the carcass, simultaneous feeding was not observed. The sharks showed a clear preference for soft tissue at sites along the mouth of the carcass. Protective ocular rotation was rarely observed and none of the sharks exhibited palatoquadrate protrusion while feeding. These observations provide a new insight into the foraging behaviour of young of the year and juvenile great white sharks. The prevalence of small great white sharks (1.5 m TL) and the absence of any individuals greater than 3.65 m TL suggest that Algoa Bay may function as a nursery area for great white sharks in South Africa. This information is crucial not only to improve our understanding of great white shark biology, but also for their long-term management and conservation in South Africa. © CSIRO 2008.
Authors & Co-Authors
Dicken, Matthew Laurence
South Africa, Gqeberha
Nelson Mandela University
South Africa, Port Elizabeth
Straits Research
Statistics
Citations: 62
Authors: 1
Affiliations: 2
Identifiers
Doi:
10.1071/MF07223
Study Design
Cross Sectional Study
Study Locations
South Africa