All About a Great White Sharks Liver

The amount of energy stored in a large Great white shark liver could be as much as a 2 million Kcal of energy. What does that mean?  Approximately 2 million kilocalories of energy would be equivalent to 9,302 Snickers candy bars.

The Great White Shark, one of the ocean’s most majestic and feared creatures, continues to captivate the human imagination. While its intimidating presence and sharp teeth are well-known, there’s an often-overlooked marvel within this apex predator – its liver. The liver of the Great White Shark holds fascinating secrets and plays a crucial role in the shark’s survival.

The liver of the Great White Shark is a remarkable organ, constituting a significant portion of its body weight. In fact, it can make up to 28% of the shark’s total mass. This enormous liver serves multiple functions, with one of the most notable being buoyancy control. The liver’s high oil content, specifically squalene, provides the shark with the ability to control its depth in the water, ensuring efficient swimming and hunting.

The Great White Shark’s liver also plays a crucial role in its metabolic adaptations for a life in the open ocean. The liver aids in the digestion and storage of fats, allowing the shark to go for extended periods without feeding. This is particularly essential for a species that may cover vast distances in search of prey or a long migration In simpler terms, when it comes to the migration of white sharks over long distances, their energy storage is a key factor rather than relying on local food sources. These sharks have a special organ called the liver, which is a major source of stored energy. As mentioned prior the white shark’s liver can be as much as 28% of its body weight, and a significant portion of it is made up of high-energy fats. Studies show that these fats play a crucial role in helping sharks move over long distances. In fact, the energy stored in their liver from consuming just one large meal, like whale blubber, can keep a white shark going for about one and a half months during their migration. It’s like having a powerful fuel reserve to support their entire journey.  The amount of energy stored in a large Great white sharks liver could be as much as a 2 million Kcal of energy,  what does that mean?  Approximately 2 million kilocalories of energy would be equivalent to 9,302 Snickers candy bars.  Over a 6 week and 2500 mile migration that is 221 snickers bars a day!!

Why Do Killer whales eat only the livers of great White Sharks?

The livers of great white sharks contain essential nutrients and fats, making them an ideal meal for a hungry orca. Surprisingly, orcas exhibit a behavior not too dissimilar from humans. The key factor driving their preference for consuming only the livers of great white sharks lies in the nutrient-rich properties inherent in these organs.

What do humans use shark liver for?

Squalene: Liquid Gold of the Ocean: Squalene is a compound found in the liver oil of sharks, including the Great White. This substance is highly valued in various industries, including cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. The liver of the Great White Shark is a rich source of squalene, and its extraction has raised concerns about the impact on shark populations. Researchers are exploring sustainable alternatives to meet the demand for squalene without jeopardizing shark populations.

Conservation Challenges: Despite the incredible biological adaptations associated with the Great White Shark’s liver, the species faces numerous conservation challenges. Overfishing and demand for shark products, including liver oil, pose a threat to their populations. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these magnificent creatures and ensure the balance of marine ecosystems.

Conclusion: The Great White Shark’s liver is a testament to the marvels of evolution and adaptation in the world’s oceans. Its sheer size, oil-rich composition, and functional significance highlight the intricate balance that exists in the life of this apex predator. As we continue to explore and understand the wonders of marine life, it is crucial to approach conservation with a sense of responsibility, ensuring the survival of species like the Great White Shark for generations to come.

Join us for an Ocean Safari to see a Great White Shark up close.  Trips depart from Santa Cruz Harbor

Read  more here https://doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2013.0836