Whale Shark
NameWhale Shark
Scientific NameRhincodon typus
Common NamesWhale Shark, Rhincodon
FamilyRhincodontidae
OriginTropical and warm-temperate oceans worldwide
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelexpert
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)6000000
Max Size (Inches)720
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)70-85
pH Range8.0-8.4
Compatible SpeciesPelagic fish species, Reef fish (in large enough environments), Other large marine life (e.g., manta rays, tuna)
Description
The Whale Shark is the largest known living nonmammalian vertebrate and the largest living fish species. It is a filter feeder, feeding on plankton, small fish, and crustaceans by swimming with its mouth open. Despite its enormous size, it is a docile creature and poses no threat to humans, often allowing swimmers to interact with it.
