Whale Shark

Q: Can you eat Whale Shark?

Endangered species — consumption is strongly discouraged and illegal in many countries. Historically consumed in parts of Asia; now internationally protected under CITES Appendix II.

Q: How big does Whale Shark get?

Whale Shark can grow up to 1800.0 cm long and weigh 21500.0 kg.

Q: Where is Whale Shark found?

Pantropical in open oceanic and coastal waters between 30°N and 35°S. Aggregates seasonally at feeding sites including Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Gulf of Tadjoura in Djibouti. Neritic, coral reefs

Q: Is Whale Shark endangered?

The conservation status of Whale Shark is Endangered according to the IUCN Red List.

Q: What family does Whale Shark belong to?

Whale Shark (Rhincodon typus) belongs to the family Rhincodontidae (Whale sharks) in the order Orectolobiformes (Carpet sharks).

Abstract

The largest living fish, the whale shark reaches up to 18 metres yet feeds gently on plankton, fish eggs, and small fish by cruising with its cavernous mouth agape. Its dark gray back is patterned with a distinctive checkerboard of pale spots and stripes unique to each individual, allowing researchers to identify particular animals. Pantropical between about 30 degrees north and 35 degrees south, it aggregates seasonally at feeding sites such as Australia's Ningaloo Reef and the Gulf of Tadjoura off Djibouti. Reaching over 21 tonnes, it is a slow-maturing, migratory shark now assessed as Endangered and protected under CITES Appendix II, so its consumption is illegal in many countries.