The great white shark is notable for its size, with mature female individuals growing up to 6.1 m (20 ft) in length and 1,950 kg (4,300 lb) in weight. However most are smaller, males measuring 3.35 to 3.96 m (11 ft 0 in to 13 ft 0 in) and females 4.57 to 4.88 m (15 ft 0 in to 16 ft 0 in) on average.
For most ALS genes, only one mutated copy is needed to cause disease. This is called a âdominantâ gene. For other genes, both copies must be mutated to cause disease. This is called a ârecessiveâ gene. During formation of eggs and sperm, gene pairs split up, so that an egg (or sperm) contains only one gene copy.
Researchers speculate that defects in protective enzymes may also account for non-inherited ALS and that environmental toxins may be a factor. Some evidence suggests that the disease may be triggered by exposure to heavy metals, animal hides, or fertilizers, although this is by no means proven.