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RESEARCH ARTICLE
Contents Vol 59(7)

First observations of young of the year and juvenile great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) scavenging from a whale carcass

M. L. Dicken
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations

A Department of Development Studies, School of Economics, Development and Tourism, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, PO Box 77000, Port Elizabeth 6031, South Africa.

B Current address: Straits Research, Office no. 8 Vulindlela Village, Addo Road, Port Elizabeth 6212, South Africa.

C Email: raggedtoothshark@bayworld.co.za

Marine and Freshwater Research 59(7) 596-602 https://doi.org/10.1071/MF07223
Submitted: 23 November 2007  Accepted: 13 May 2008   Published: 24 July 2008

Abstract

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.

Additional keywords: carcass, cetacean, juvenile, scavenging, South Africa.


Acknowledgements

This study would not have been possible without the help of Mark Addison and Blue Wilderness Dive Expeditions, who provided all boating logistics for the study. Thanks to G. Kant, Captain I. Bosman and the crew of the Lilian Ngoyi for identifying and towing the whale carcass to the Port of Ngqura. I would also like to acknowledge the help of G. K. Wilkens and F. Christian in facilitating the temporary anchorage of the carcass within the Port of Ngqura. Anecdotal descriptions of other South African scavenging events were kindly provided by A. Kock from the Shark Research Centre – Iziko Museums, M. Rutzen of Shark Diving Unlimited, P. Best of the Marine Research Institute Whale Unit, G. Cliff and S. Dudley from the Natal Sharks Board, P. Chadwick from De Hoop Nature Reserve and C. Maxwell of Underwater Video Services. Thanks also go to the Port Elizabeth Museum Director and staff for their support and infrastructure. Finally, I would like to thank M. Smale and two anonymous referees, who provided many valuable and insightful comments on an earlier draft manuscript.


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