Whale shark

The whale shark (*Rhincodon typus*) is the largest living fish and a slow-moving, filter-feeding shark.

The whale shark (Rhincodon typus) is the largest living fish species, a slow-moving, filter-feeding shark. Despite its enormous size, it poses no danger to humans, feeding mainly on plankton, fish eggs, and tiny crustaceans. These gentle giants are found in tropical and warm-temperate oceans worldwide.

Description

The whale shark is a cartilaginous fish and the largest known living fish species. Its huge mouth and filter-feeding anatomy are adapted for straining small prey from seawater. Adults can reach lengths of up to about 18–20 metres and weights of up to 15–20 tonnes or more.

Distribution and habitat

Whale sharks occur in marine environments worldwide, especially in tropical and warm waters. They are pelagic, meaning they live in the open ocean rather than on the seafloor. Their range spans tropical and warm-temperate marine waters across the globe.

Diet and feeding

Whale sharks feed by filtering plankton, fish eggs, krill, crab larvae, small crustaceans, and small fish from the water. They often feed near the surface but can also dive deeply in search of prey.

Human interactions and conservation

Whale sharks are generally harmless to people and are often described as gentle giants. They are listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, with populations threatened by fishing, bycatch, and collisions with ships.