Whale shark

The whale shark (Rhincodon typus) is the largest living fish, commonly 8–9 m and 9–15 tonnes, with a maximum near 18.8 m; its white spots and bars are unique to each individual, and more than 300 rows of tiny teeth line the jaws. It filter-feeds on zooplankton, krill, jellyfish and fish eggs by ram and suction, occurring in warm seas from about 30 degrees north to 35 degrees south and diving to 1,928 m. Pups measure 40–60 cm. The IUCN assessed it as Endangered in 2025, and trade is regulated under CITES Appendix II.