A relative of the white shark Carcharodon megalodon that it appears from fossil records grew as large as 17 metres or more only became extinct as recently as 2.5 million years ago. A comparison to show just what a formidable animal Carcharodon Megalodon was, was its size to weight ratios. The largest white shark recorded a 7.10m specimen from Kangaroo Island South Australia. A 17m Megalodon would weigh approximately 59413kg or the equivalent of 12 very large African elephant. Many people believe that everything is hunky dory for the Great White.
Mortality is high from various sources.
The Natal Sharks Board catches between 9 and 60 sharks per annum. Unfortunately the vast majority of these great predators die in these nets. Commercial game fishermen still take clients out to catch these sharks in the name of science, many of these sharks are also killed through this practice. Long liners, gill nets, and shark finners all have an impact as most of these people have very little respect for the Great White other than its commercial value. Until government takes firm steps against non bona fide research organizations who kill the white sharks the animal is doomed to a mere memory for those who were privileged enough to see it.