Whale Shark

Rhincodon typus

Occurring in

Arabian Sea
Caribbean
East Africa and India
North Atlantic
Northern Pacific
Oceania
Persian Gulf
Red Sea
South Atlantic
South Indian Ocean
Southeast Pacific
Tropical East Pacific
Pacific west

0-1900m

DayActive

VeryEndangered

The whale shark is the largest fish in the world and can grow over 12 meters long. Despite its size, it feeds on tiny organisms. Very large, broad body with a flat, wide head.

Habitat

Open Water

Special Features

The whale shark is the largest fish in the world and can grow over 12 meters long. Despite its size, it feeds on tiny organisms.

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Appearance

Very large, broad body with a flat, wide head. Dark gray to bluish base color with white spots and stripes. Huge mouth at the front of the head.

Natural Enemies

Hardly any natural enemies (occasionally larger sharks or orcas with juveniles)

Dangerous/Toxic

Completely harmless and non-toxic.

Pro Tips

Whale sharks are filter feeders and eat plankton, small fish, and fish larvae. They often swim slowly near the surface and can be observed with divers.