This is a cast of a Great White Shark (Carcharodon carcharias) tooth, one of the most recognisable tools of this apex predator. Its broad, triangular shape and finely serrated edges are perfectly adapted for gripping and slicing large marine prey.
Location:
Great White Sharks inhabit temperate and subtropical coastal and offshore waters worldwide, including the coasts of North America, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and parts of Europe. They are often found near seal colonies, continental shelves, and areas with abundant fish populations.
Size:
Adult teeth typically measure 4–6 cm in height, though some exceed 7 cm. Adults commonly reach 4–6 m in length, with one exceptional individual having been recorded as 6.4 m in length.
Tooth Structure:
The tooth is broad, triangular, and sharply pointed, with serrated edges on both sides for cutting flesh efficiently. Teeth are continuously replaced throughout the shark’s life, with new teeth moving forward to replace lost or worn ones.
Feeding and Behaviour:
Great Whites feed on marine mammals, large fish, and other sharks. They often use a swift, powerful bite to disable prey, sometimes releasing it to allow blood loss to weaken it before returning to consume it.
Scientific Value:
A tooth cast preserves the precise shape, size, and serration patterns without risking damage to the original. Studying teeth provides insight into the shark’s feeding ecology, hunting strategies, and role as an apex predator in the ocean ecosystem.
This specimen was scanned for The Shark Trust, an organisation dedicated to improving the conservation status of sharks, skates, and rays. Through advocacy, science-based policy work, and community engagement, The Shark Trust leads efforts to protect these vital marine species.
We extend our thanks for the permission to 3D scan and share this specimen. Explore more of their impactful projects at The Shark Trust website
