What is a whale shark?
Q: What is a whale shark?
A: A whale shark is a type of filter feeding shark and is the largest shark in the world.
Q: How big can a whale shark grow?
A: A whale shark can grow up to 12 metres long and may weigh as much as 47,000 pounds.
Q: What is the distribution of the whale shark?
A: The whale shark has a very wide distribution and can be found in all tropical and warm temperate seas, except in the Mediterranean.
Q: Is the whale shark a carnivore?
A: No, the whale shark is not a carnivore. It is a filter feeder and mostly feeds on plankton and small fish.
Q: What is the scientific name of the whale shark?
A: The scientific name of the whale shark is Rhincodon typus.
Q: How does the whale shark filter feed?
A: The whale shark uses its massive mouth to filter feed, taking in a large amount of water and then filtering out the plankton and small fish through its gills.
Q: Why is the whale shark important?
A: The whale shark is important as it serves as an indicator of the health of the ocean's ecosystem, and also as a source of ecotourism. Additionally, their large size and unique features make them a highly valued and sought after species for research purposes.
