NAME: Whale Shark
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Rhincodon typus
STATUS: Endangered

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OVERVIEW: The whale shark is the largest fish in the ocean and one of only three filter-feeding shark species. Despite its size, it feeds on the smallest prey, gulping up to 600,000 litres of water filled with krill, plankton, and tiny fish. While its brain is small compared to its body, its large, complex cerebellum, responsible for motor control and learning, helps it navigate the vast and dynamic open ocean with ease. This gentle giant glides through warm tropical waters, its intricate, spotty pattern making it one of the most recognisable sharks in the ocean.

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SIZE: At birth: 55-64cm. Mature males: 600cm. Mature females: 800cm. Max size: 1700-2100cm

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RANGE AND HABITAT: Whale sharks are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide, except for the Mediterranean. They prefer surface waters with temperatures between 21-25°C but can dive to depths of up to 1,928 metres. Since current tagging technology only tracks them to this depth, it’s possible they venture even deeper. These gentle ​​

giants are known to inhabit both coastal and open-ocean environments, but their pupping and nursery grounds remain a mystery.

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DIET: Whale sharks are filter feeders, consuming whatever plankton they can trap with their gill rakers. They are also known to feed on fish spawn, jellyfish, and even baitfish. Unlike basking sharks, which rely solely on ram feeding (swimming with their mouths open to push water through their gills), whale sharks can also suction feed. In this method, they stay still in areas rich with prey and pump plankton-filled water over their gills using their mouths. This versatile feeding strategy allows them to thrive in diverse environments.

 

BEHAVIOUR: Whale sharks are highly migratory, embarking on long-term journeys across vast distances. One individual was tracked swimming an impressive 13,000 km over 37 months; they are true ocean explorers! These extensive migrations are likely a regular occurrence, as studies reveal minimal genetic variation among whale sharks worldwide. In certain regions, hundreds of whale sharks gather annually to feast during spawning events when plankton concentrations are at their peak. An all you can eat buffet for these gentle giants!

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BIOLOGY:  

- Whale sharks are ovoviviparous, meaning embryos develop internally and are nourished by a yolk sac before the mother gives birth to live, independent young. Due to their elusive nature, little is known about their reproduction. However, the only recorded pregnant female, found in Taiwan, gave birth to an astounding 304 pups, the largest litter of any shark species. Interestingly, the pups were at different developmental stages, and genetic analysis revealed they shared the same father. This suggests that whale sharks may store sperm and fertilise their eggs sequentially, creating a "pup conveyor belt." The locations of their pupping areas remain a mystery.
- Gestation: Unknown
- Sexual Maturity: 9-30 years
- Lifespan: 70 years

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THREATS: Whale sharks are classified as Endangered by the IUCN, with global populations estimated to have declined by over 50%. One of their biggest threats is vessel strikes, as they often feed near the surface and are slow-moving, putting them at risk in busy shipping lanes. Overfishing is another major concern, both through targeted fishing and accidental bycatch. Despite their low-quality meat, whale sharks are still sought after, particularly for their large fins, which are valued as trophies and display items. Population declines vary regionally, but the overall outlook remains concerning for this gentle giant of the ocean.