The Whale Shark, World’s Biggest Fish: A Gradual Disappearance

Lyla, California, Age 13
11 hours ago
2 min read

Photo Source: https://marinemadnessdotblog

Introduction:

Located mainly in the Philippines, whale sharks are majestic, elusive creatures that dwell in depths at an elevation of around 2,000 meters. They primarily feed on plankton and can grow up to a whopping 60 feet long, weighing an average of 18 tons. Whale sharks live around 70-130 years. Each spot on a whale shark’s body acts like a human fingerprint- not one whale shark shares the same pattern of spots.

Photo Source: https://motionarray.com/stock

Photo Source: https://www.galapagoswhaleshark

Reasons of Endangerment and Disappearance:

Some may wonder why and how these giant creatures can disappear and go endangered. Well, the main causes of endangerment are fisheries, bycatch, vessel strikes, and climate change. Fisheries use a type of method called finning, an inhumane method of sawing the fins off of those captured while they are still alive and tossing the body back into the water. Bycatch is the process of accidentally catching fish who are not supposed to be caught in a fishing net, and whale sharks are more common victims. Additionally, these sea creatures are victims of vessel strikes, usually leaving the fish fatally injured. Climate change just adds to the list. These are the key reasons for the slow decline in the population of whale sharks. According to an article on Wikipedia, 50% of the whale shark population has declined over the past 75 years. This further motivates many conservationists to step in.

Conservation Activity:

Due to the descent in population of whale sharks, many conservationists have been attempting to spread awareness and help the population recover. Conservation groups such as World Wildlife Fund and Galapagos Whale Sharks take action to make a difference and save the lives of many sea creatures including whale sharks. Even if one is not part of a conservation group, there are ways to help! Choosing sustainable seafood, NOT buying whale shark or shark products and supporting conservation efforts are just a few. Spreading awareness to friends, family, or strangers can further assist! There are many ways to aid the population of whale sharks, though it may take time and effort.

Photo Source: https://www.lamave.org/our-programs/whale-sharks

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the whale shark population may be decreasing, but it doesn’t mean that it’s over! Support conservation efforts, spread awareness, and save the world’s biggest fish! Who knows, maybe a whale shark will stop by to thank you someday!