Why Great White Sharks Are Dying
Great white sharks die from fishing bycatch, targeted fishing, ship strikes, and habitat loss. Their slow growth, late maturity, and low reproductive rate make populations vulnerable to even moderate increases in mortality.
Key Threats to Great White Shark Survival
Bycatch in longline and gillnet fisheries kills thousands of sharks each year. Illegal trade in fins and jaws also drives mortality. Climate change and prey depletion can further stress populations, reducing survival rates.
Conservation Efforts and Outlook
International protections, including CITES listings and regional fishing rules, aim to reduce catches. Scientists monitor populations with tagging and genetic studies. Supporting sustainable fisheries and shark-safe practices helps lower death rates and supports long-term recovery.
Learn more about shark conservation and current research from the International Union for Conservation of Nature at IUCN Red List – Great White Shark.
