The Great White Shark: A species on the brink of extinction?

The local population of great white sharks in South Africa is facing a high risk of extinction due to human activities.

Researchers estimate that only 350 to 500 sharks remain in the area, with their disappearance from hotspots like Gansbaai and Seal Island already affecting local marine ecosystems.

Chris Fallows, a conservationist and wildlife photographer, explains that the decline began around 2007 and has worsened over the years.

"As far back as 2007, the decline continued relatively slowly, but, suddenly, around 2014, we started noticing a huge decline.”

He attributed the decline to the two primary human-created causes: the demersal shark longline fishing industry and the Natal Sharks Board.

He said the demersal shark longline fishing industry has been removing prey for great white sharks, causing casualties, while the Natal Sharks Board has been actively killing great whites since the 1950s.

“If you give the numbers over the years, it's well over 1,500 white sharks that have been killed by the Natal Sharks Board.”

Fallows emphasised the need for immediate action to protect the great white shark population.

"If we don't get rid of the demersal shark longlining industry, which has been caught in all sorts of nefarious activities, or replace the Natal Sharks Board's nets with non-lethal means, I don't think there is a future for the great white shark," he warned.

To listen to Fallows in conversation with CapeTalk’s John Maytham, use the audio player below: