whale shark (Rhincodon typus)
DESCRIPTION
The Whale Shark it the largest fish in the world. Like a human finger print a Whale Sharks pattens of spots are different. They can weight up to 11 ton! Imagine holding that!
habitat
These sharks are found all around the world.
diet
I find it fascinating how the largest fish of them all eats microscopic food, plankton!
threats
It is classified vulnerable. Whale Shark meat, fins and oil is highly prised. Whale shark tourism can disrupt their feeding and they can be injured by boat propellers. When the largest Whale Shark was found they killed it!
conservation
WWF supports ecotourism (they don't disturb the animal). They raise awareness about boat collisions. WWF also does research on the Whale Shark and Whale Shark studies. Beach care does a great job at cleaning up beaches.
how to help
- Adopt a Whale Shark.
- Join beach care.
- Spread the massage.
- By protecting the Great Barrier Reef you are protecting all animals.
image cedits
http://www.worldwildlife.org/species/whale-shark
http://thecelestialconvergence.blogspot.com.au/2012_02_08_archive.html
http://www.worldwildlife.org/photos/tiburones_198-jpg
http://thecelestialconvergence.blogspot.com.au/2012_02_08_archive.html
http://www.worldwildlife.org/photos/tiburones_198-jpg