Species Spotlight · 30 Aug 2024
International Whale Shark Day is celebrated annually on 30 August to raise awareness about the world's largest fish species, the whale shark. These gentle giants, known for their distinctive spotted patterns and massive size, can grow up to 18 metres long and weigh as much as 20 tons. Whale sharks are filter feeders, primarily consuming plankton, small fish, and squid. Despite their enormous size, they are known for their gentle nature and pose no threat to humans. Unfortunately, their populations are declining due to threats such as illegal fishing, bycatch, and habitat destruction.
A whale shark is, in fact, a shark — the biggest living shark species on our planet. Despite being so big, their teeth are very small, measuring only six millimetres in length.
One of the most fascinating facts about whale sharks is that each one has a fully unique spot pattern, just like a human fingerprint. This gives researchers the ability to run visual analytics on a whale shark so that they can identify and track it correctly.
One of the reasons whale sharks are so vulnerable is that they move at shallow depths and swim slowly through the ocean. They prefer to roam seas around 50 metres deep, despite being able to dive to 1,000 metres, and swim at only around five kilometres per hour. Because of this, they are highly vulnerable to getting caught in fishing nets and to ship collisions.
The day was first commemorated in 2008 at the International Whale Shark Conference in Isla Holbox, Mexico, where experts gathered to address the alarming decrease in whale shark numbers. Since then, International Whale Shark Day has become a global event aimed at promoting conservation efforts and educating the public about the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures and their habitats.
By taking these steps, we can help ensure that future generations will continue to marvel at the beauty and majesty of whale sharks.
Are you planning anything special to celebrate International Whale Shark Day?