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EN
Endangered
A
Animalia
N
Native
Archipelago Wide (sea) The whale shark is the largest shark and fish species, with a global distribution in warm and temperate seas. They are known for their migratory behavior and seasonal gatherings, which coincide with events like coral and fish spawning. Feeding primarily on plankton through a method called ram filtration, these gentle giants also have small, non-functional teeth. They are easily recognizable by their unique spot patterns, broad heads, and large mouths. Despite their size, much about their growth, lifespan, and reproduction remains a mystery. In the Galapagos, most observed whale sharks are pregnant females, highlighting the islands' importance for this species.
Primarily feeding on plankton, whale sharks occasionally consume small fish. They are frequently seen near the surface, engaging in a feeding behavior called ram filtration, where they swim with their mouths open to channel plankton-rich water inside. Although they have teeth—up to 3,000 small, 3mm teeth—they do not use them for feeding.
In recent years, scientists have used advanced GPS tracking technology to better understand the migratory patterns of whale sharks. These tracking devices, often affixed to the shark’s dorsal fin, provide valuable insights into their long-distance journeys. For instance, a whale shark tagged in Panama was tracked for nearly 850 days, covering a remarkable 12,516 miles to the Mariana Trench. This technology helps researchers gather crucial data on whale shark behavior, including their deep-sea dives and feeding areas.
The devices, typically attached with tethers, relay data to satellites, offering real-time tracking of their movements across the globe. However, the process isn't without challenges; tracking signals can be lost when sharks dive too deep or face interference from human activities. These studies are essential in understanding whale sharks' migratory behavior and are critical for conservation efforts, especially as the species is classified as endangered due to threats like fishing and habitat disruption?.










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