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Whale Sharks(Rhincodon typus)
Type: Fish Diet: Carnivore Size: 18 to 32.8 ft (5.5 to 10 m) Weight: Average, 20.6 tons (18.7 tonnes) Group name: School Did you know? The largest whale shark ever measured was 40 feet (12.2 meters) long; however, the species is thought to grow even bigger. Protection status: Threatened Size relative to a bus:
Diet This shark swims slowly near the surface, consuming small crustacean plankton, small fishes, such as sardines and anchovies, and even larger fishes such as mackerel.
Reproduction The whale shark is a live-bearer. Pregnant females were recently found to contain hundreds of young, up to about 2' (60cm) long.
Habitat The whale shark is found in all tropical and subtropical oceans, along coastal regions, and enters lagoons on tropical islands. It is mostly seen on the surface were divers and snorkelers can swim with this gentle, curious creature
Range The whale shark ranges throughout the western and eastern Atlantic Ocean, the Indo-West, central, and eastern Pacific Ocean.
Distinguishing Characteristics Harmless Seasonally, day and night Appears curious with humans
LIFE SPAN It has been estimated that whale sharks may live up to 100 - 150 years.