Shark Bite Investigation

 Most of you know shows like CSI or Forensic Files where autopsies are done to find out what happened to the victim. Shark attack investigators have a surprisingly similar role, examining bodies or photos to determine the size, species and actions of the shark involved. Fortunately, unlike CSI, most examinations are usually of living people- around 85-90% of bite victims survive nowadays.

1- Below is photo is of an investigator using a clay mold to study a bite pattern with a set of jaws.

Shark bite molds being made

2- The photo below shows the teeth of a great white. The lower teeth tend to be spikier and narrower to hold prey in place. The upper teeth are wider and more serrated to saw and cut. In reverse to how we eat, the upper jaw of a great white does most of the work, moving from side to side, which leaves distinctive marks. 

The teeth and jaws of a great white shark

3- Finally, the teeth of a tiger shark- shorter and more curved, but still razor sharp. When an expert examines a bite by checking the spacing, depth and shape of the wound, they can usually tell the difference between species like great whites or a tiger sharks. In some cases though none of that is necessary.

The teeth and jaws of a tiger shark

Sharks often lose teeth, sometimes leaving one or two behind in a bite. Luckily for them they constantly regenerate and replace them throughout their lives, going through hundreds or even thousands.