Quick answer
Whale Sharks (Rhincodon typus) are fishs found across multiple regions. The largest fish in the world. Adults typically weigh Up to roughly 19,000 kg (42,000 lb), reach speeds of up to 5 km/h (3 mph), and live Estimated 70–100 years. They feed on filter feeder (plankton, small fish) and are listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Warm tropical and subtropical seas around the world, often at coastal feeding hotspots.
Key takeaway
Whale Sharks (Rhincodon typus) are fishs found across multiple regions. The largest fish in the world. Adults typically weigh Up to roughly 19,000 kg (42,000 lb), reach speeds of up to 5 km/h (3 mph), and live Estimated 70–100 years. They feed on filter feeder (plankton, small fish) and are listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Warm tropical and subtropical seas around the world, often at coastal feeding hotspots.
Whale Shark overview
Whale Shark (Rhincodon typus) is a fish listed here as Endangered. Typical weight Up to roughly 19,000 kg (42,000 lb); lifespan around Estimated 70–100 years.
Whale Shark ecology
Diet: Filter feeder (plankton, small fish). Habitat: Warm open and coastal oceans. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Whale Sharks and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild whale sharks are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Endangered. See the full Whale Shark profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Whale Sharks inhabit Warm tropical and subtropical seas around the world, often at coastal feeding hotspots. Their preferred habitat includes warm open and coastal oceans, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persistence across multiple regions.
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult whale sharks typically measure about 12 m in length and weigh Up to roughly 19,000 kg (42,000 lb). They can sprint at up to 5 km/h (3 mph) when hunting or escaping predators. Whale Sharks are known for the largest fish in the world — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Whale Shark FAQs
What are key facts about whale sharks?
Whale Sharks (Rhincodon typus) are fishs found across multiple regions. The largest fish in the world. Adults typically weigh Up to roughly 19,000 kg (42,000 lb), reach speeds of up to 5 km/h (3 mph), and live Estimated 70–100 years. They feed on filter feeder (plankton, small fish) and are listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Warm tropical and subtropical seas around the world, often at coastal feeding hotspots.
What is the scientific name of the whale shark?
Rhincodon typus — used in research and conservation listings for whale sharks.
What do whale sharks eat?
Whale Sharks eat plankton, small fish, with seasonal and regional variation in Warm open and coastal oceans.
Where do whale sharks live?
They are associated with Warm open and coastal oceans. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of whale sharks?
Listed in our guides as Endangered. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.