Introduction: The Great White Shift: Ancient Predator, New Perspectives (04:16)

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The great white shark's habitat is global; the species has lived 500 million years, through two mass extinctions. Franklin Raff researches the species at Guadalupe Island; he identifies swimming and eating anatomy.

First Dive and Ethology (05:57)

Raff reviews safety preparations before cage diving; he observes great white sharks feeding on mackerel. Captain Spender Salmon confirms that their behavior is not understood, but they are more social than previously believed.

Research Technology (07:29)

Maurits Van Zinnicq Bergmann uses acoustic transmitters to track great whites; SharkLab develops satellite tags. Radioactive signatures allow scientists to determine ages. Critter Cams permit first person observation.

Mindful Predator (07:07)

Raff discusses great white behaviors; clear water permits observation of hierarchical displays and social systems. SharkLab researchers find attacks are rare, given contact frequency with human coastal activity. The sharks' learning capacity is greater than previously believed; some associate fishing boats with free food.

Habitat and Size (04:08)

Guadalupe Island's ecosystem, destroyed by humans and goats, is slowing recovering and waters consistently attract large great white sharks. At Ocean First Institute, scientists experiment with laser stereoscopic photogrammetry.

Seven Senses and Mating (07:41)

Great whites spy-hop and can detect a blood drop in 2,000,000 gallons of water; electrosensitive ionized gel and the ampullae of Lorenzini permit biosignature detection and transoceanic navigation. Males have claspers; females gestate young ovoviviparously. Juveniles migrate during winter.

Food Chain Domination (07:24)

Great whites can detect glycine in blood from miles away. Their serrated teeth are replaced when worn and set within protruding jaws. They prefer fatty foods, endothermically recycling the energy.

Conservation and Respect (09:47)

Great white sharks can vomit their stomachs, shaking out undigestible contents; scientists believe the behavior is a stress response. Populations are endangered, but 17 countries have agreed to institute protective measures. Experts believe ecotourism is an educational tool.

Credits: The Great White Shift: Ancient Predator, New Perspectives (00:27)

Credits: The Great White Shift: Ancient Predator, New Perspectives