A photographer spotted a great white shark with an unusually large bite scar on its side. The encounter occurred during a diving expedition off the coast of México. The image gained repercussion years later when it circulated again on social media.
Jalil Najafov, an Azerbaijani photographer, shark enthusiast, conservationist and filmmaker, was participating in an organized tour in August 2019. The group was sailing near Guadalupe island when the animal passed close to the boat. The brand caught immediate attention due to its extension.
The scar forms a circular pattern with visible teeth marks. Ela covers a wide area on the shark’s side. Especialistas in sharks consider the record rare.
Avistamento happened during an expedition on an island known for sharks
Guadalupe island is about 240 kilometers from the Baja California peninsula. The place is a traditional point for observing great white sharks. Najafov was aboard a five-day expedition boat.
The group noticed the female shark swimming close to the vessel. The size of the animal was already impressive. Then they noticed the mark on the skin.
Najafov decided to act quickly. Ele took a waterproof camera and dived with an underwater cage to record closer images. GoPro footage captured details of the scar.
- The shark measured approximately 4.5 to 5 meters in length
- The bite mark extended down the side and part of the chest.
- The pattern included dots and lines that suggest large teeth.
- The animal swam normally despite the visible scar
- The expedition took place in waters known for concentrations of great whites
The photographer described his surprise at seeing the size of the injury on such a large predator. Ele dove to secure the record before the animal moved away.
Cicatriz raises questions about the origin of the bite
White Tubarões have scars from interactions with other animals or their own species. Marcas mating attacks are common in females, caused by bites from males during the reproductive period. Essas lesions often leave dent patterns and scratches.
In the registered case, the size of the mark generated debate. Algumas observations point to bite from another great white shark. Outras speculations arose on social networks, but experts indicate that the most likely is intraspecies interaction.
Najafov initially shared the material on his Instagram account in late 2021. The post attracted thousands of views and comments. Veículos press broadcast the images in different countries.
The animal received attention for surviving the incident. The scar was already showing signs of healing at the time of the photo. Isso indicates that the event occurred weeks or months earlier.
Imagens highlights behavior and biology of great whites
Tubarões whites are apex predators in the oceans. Eles hunt seals, sea lions and other marine animals. Encontros between individuals of the same species occurs due to disputes over territory, food or mating.
Registros like this help to better understand population dynamics. Cientistas track scars to identify individuals over time. The ability of shark skin to regenerate is also a topic of study.
Najafov, who has already documented several sharks in the region, considered the record one of the most remarkable. Ele temporarily lost the memory card with the original images and only published the material after recovering it.
The photo shows the shark in natural movement. The surrounding water appears clear, typical of conditions on Guadalupe island during the observing season.
Registro reinforces the importance of marine conservation
Expedições like the one performed by Najafov contribute to awareness about marine life. Shark watching tourism generates data and encourages species protection.
Grandes white people face threats such as overfishing and changes in the ocean environment. Imagens that show their resilience help promote respect for the animal.
The photographer continues to produce content about sharks. Suas publications mix amateur scientific record with visual appeal to engage audiences.
Guadalupe island remains one of the best spots in the world for close encounters with the species. Mergulhadores in cages accompany animals safely.
Detalhes of the expedition and photographic record
The trip took place in August 2019 with the support of specialized local operators. The second day of the expedition brought the main sighting. The shark passed close to the boat on the last day, as if completing the observation cycle.
Najafov used standard equipment for the type of activity. The camera allowed us to capture movement and skin texture. The video focuses on the scar area as the animal swims parallel to the vessel.
Pesquisadores consulted in reports at the time indicated that bites between white sharks leave characteristic marks. The circular pattern and varying depth are consistent with this type of interaction.
The material continues to circulate in profiles dedicated to marine life. Ele serves as an example of how a single record can generate broad discussions about the behavior of oceanic predators.
The scar does not appear to have compromised the shark’s mobility. The animal swam fluidly in the available images. Isso suggests good recovery after the incident.