Whale Shark [Rhincodon]

Description

Rhincodon is the sole genus within the family Rhincodontidae, represented by its only member, the Whale Shark (Rhincodon typus). These are the largest known extant fish species, easily recognizable by their massive size, wide mouths, and unique filter-feeding mechanism. Whale Sharks inhabit warm waters around the globe and are typically found in open seas but not in the deep ocean. Despite their enormous size, they are gentle giants, feeding primarily on plankton, krill, and small fishes. They are known for their distinctive pattern of white spots and stripes on their dark gray skin. Whale Sharks are highly migratory and are considered to be a vulnerable species due to threats such as bycatch in fishing gear, ship strikes, and the impacts of climate change on their marine environment.

Species

Whale Shark [Rhincodon typus]

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Taxonomy