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Incredible facts about sharks, predators of the ocean

When sharks do attack humans, the encounter is often a mistake. Researchers at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration say an agitated or frightened shark could attack in self defense, or a curious shark might bite a swimmer or surfer thinking he or she is a seal.

When sharks do attack humans, the encounter is often a mistake. Researchers at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration say an agitated or frightened shark could attack in self defense, or a curious shark might bite a swimmer or surfer thinking he or she is a seal.  (Cousteau Society / Getty Images)

Did you know that more than 2,400 great white sharks live off California? Or that bigger species will often devour smaller sharks? Here are a few more facts and a number of eye-popping images.

Jagged teeth

Many species of shark, like this Mako shark caught by a group of Huntington Beach fishermen, have rows of serrated teeth that they use to tear the flesh of their prey. Researchers from the University of South Florida said this ripping motion pulls food into the shark’s mouth.  (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times)

The element of surprise

Great white sharks breach, or jump out of the water, to surprise and overpower their prey, as described in the Marine Biology Research journal.  (Tom Campbell / Associated Press)

Whale sharks

Whale sharks claim the title of the largest fish in the ocean and can grow to more than 40 feet in length, according to National Geographic.  (Sam Shelanski / Associated Press)

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Ancient history

Sharks were around even before dinosaurs, with ancestry dating back more than 400 million years. Ancient sharks survived two major extinctions, according to the Smithsonian Institution.  (Greg Skomal / Associated Press)

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