How to Identify Whale Shark

To identify Whale Shark (Rhincodon typus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Dorsally, they are dark grey to brownish-blue with a distinctive pattern of white or yellowish spots and horizontal and vertical stripes, forming a checkerboard-like appearance. This unique pattern is individual to each shark, similar to human fingerprints. The ventral side is white.

Scale type

placoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Largest fish in the world, reaching lengths of up to 18 meters (60 feet) and weights exceeding 21.5 metric tons (47,000 lbs), though average adult size is closer to 9-12 meters (30-40 feet)., Broad, flattened head with a terminal mouth that can open up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) wide., Five large gill slits on each side, with specialized filter pads for feeding., Three prominent ridges (keels) running along each side of the body., Small, widely spaced eyes located towards the front of the head., Spiracles present behind the eyes.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first is significantly larger and more triangular, positioned about two-thirds of the way back on the body. The second dorsal fin is much smaller.

Tail fin

Large, crescent-shaped (lunate) caudal fin, with the upper lobe slightly larger than the lower lobe in adults. Juveniles have a more pronounced upper lobe.

Pectoral fin

Large, broad, and somewhat paddle-shaped pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are relatively small. Anal fin is present and small, located posterior to the second dorsal fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Size and Shape

   Unmistakable due to its immense size, broad flattened head, and terminal mouth. No other fish reaches its proportions.

2. 2

   Coloration and Pattern

   The unique pattern of white/yellow spots and stripes on a dark grey/blue background is a definitive identifier. This pattern is unique to each individual.

3. 3

   Gill Slits

   Five very large gill slits on each side, often visible when the mouth is open during filter feeding.

4. 4

   Ridges

   Three prominent horizontal ridges (keels) along the flanks are characteristic.

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