Scientific name: Rhincodon typus

Common names: Whale shark

Habitat: Pelagic, open ocean to close inshore off beaches, coral reefs and islands. Occuring in water as deep as 700 metres to the surface. Pupping and nursery  grounds are still unknown

Known Predators: Only real predators are humans.

Measurements: Born: 55-64 cm

Males: 600 cm

Females: 800 cm

Max: Possibly 1700 - 2100 cm

Identification: Unmistakebly huge filter-feeder with checkerboard pattern of yellow or white spots on grey, blueish or greenish-brown back. White or yellowish underside. Broad, flat head, short snout, huge transverse almost terminal mouth in front of eyes. Prominient ridges on body, lowest ending in a keel on the caudal peduncle. Lunate, unnotched tail fin.

Diet: Plankton

IUCN Conservation Status: Vulnerable

Where to dive with them: Tofo, Mozambique and Umkomaas, South Africa

Distribution: