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Creature Feature. Whale Shark. The Biggest Fish in the Sea. Fast Facts. Grow up to 60 ft in length Weigh up to 15 tons Life span between 70 – 100 years Found in tropical oceans and in the open sea. Filter Feeder Eats macro-algae, plankton, krill, and small squid or vertebrates
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Whale Shark The Biggest Fish in the Sea
Fast Facts • Grow up to 60 ft in length • Weigh up to 15 tons • Life span between 70 – 100 years • Found in tropical oceans and in the open sea
Filter Feeder • Eats macro-algae, plankton, krill, and small squid or vertebrates • Mouth can be up to 5 ft wide and can contain between 300 and 350 rows of tiny teeth. • Use sense of smell to located lunch
Reproduction • Ovoviviparous - the eggs remain in the body and the females give birth to live young • Reach maturity around 25 years
Conservation • Over-fishing and the popularity of shark fin soup have put a dent in the population of all sharks. • The whale shark is particularly susceptible to reduced numbers because of the late age they reach sexual maturity. • Sadly, the whale shark stands a decent chance at being harpooned before it can give birth, leading to dwindling numbers. • Currently, the whale shark is listed as vulnerable by the World Conservation Union.