The largest great white shark ever recorded has drawn widespread attention from scientists, anglers, and ocean enthusiasts alike. This specimen highlights the impressive size these predators can reach and underscores the importance of accurate documentation.
Understanding the details surrounding record catches helps clarify conservation needs, data reliability, and public perception of great white sharks. The following sections organize key information in a clear, scannable format.
| Metric | Value | Source | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Record Length | 6.1 meters (20.3 feet) | Guinness World Records | Total length measured |
| Weight | 3,100 kilograms (6,834 pounds) | Angler report & verification | Estimated net weight |
| Capture Location | Canadian waters, Nova Scotia | Fisheries documentation | Northwest Atlantic region |
| Capture Date | 1955 | Historical logbooks | Year widely cited in records |
Record Size Specifications
Details about the largest great white shark focus on verified length, weight, and capture context. Accurate measurements and documentation distinguish confirmed records from anecdotal claims.
Canadian Catch History
The location and date of the largest recorded great white shark provide important geographic and temporal context. Canadian waters in the mid-20th century produced the benchmark specimen used in many comparative studies.
Physical and Biological Context
Great white sharks of this size represent the upper limit of the species' potential growth. Factors such as age, reproductive status, and feeding history influence individual size and are considered in scientific assessments.
Conservation and Data Importance
Documenting extreme size records supports broader conservation strategies by clarifying population dynamics and growth potential. Reliable data help regulators set appropriate protection measures and fishing limits.
Key Takeaways on Great White Size Records
- Verified length of 6.1 meters represents the largest reliably documented great white shark.
- Capture in 1955 in Canadian waters remains the standard reference point.
- Weight estimates around 3,100 kilograms highlight the mass these animals can attain.
- Record data support scientific research and conservation policy decisions.
- Ongoing monitoring ensures future records, if surpassed, are documented with rigorous standards.
FAQ
Reader questions
How was the largest great white shark measured?
The shark was measured using total length from snout to tail tip, recorded by fisheries officials at the time of capture in 1955.
Where was this shark caught exactly?
The specimen was caught in Canadian waters off the coast of Nova Scotia in the Northwest Atlantic.
Has this record been officially verified?
Yes, the size and capture details are documented in Guinness World Records and linked to historical fisheries logs.
Why is this record still referenced today?
It serves as a key benchmark for scientific comparison, public education, and discussions about large shark conservation.