Project AWARE’s Whale Shark Project aims to help conserve one of the world’s most impressive marine creatures.

The project incorporates a Whale Shark Awareness Distinctive Speciality, giving divers and snorkellers essential knowledge and skills interact responsibly with whale sharks. The Whale Shark Photo Identification Database also allows divers and snorkellers to report their sightings. Data submitted is used by scientists and researchers studying whale shark migration patterns and other information essential to ensure their future protection.

Whale Sharks

Reaching up to 18 metres in length, the whale shark (Rhincodon typus) is the largest living fish species in the world. A harmless plankton eating filter feeder, its slate blue body is painted by a myriad of pale spots and stripes - a pattern unique to each individual. Whale sharks are found in all tropical and warm temperature seas with the exception of the Mediterranean, deep water and lagoons of corals atolls. But despite their huge size these creatures are not often sighted except for a few favoured areas throughout the western and eastern Atlantic Ocean, the Indo-West, central, and eastern Pacific Ocean .

Light blue area indicates areas visited by whale sharks

Very little is currently know about whale shark biology, but we do know they roam enormous distances in the world’s warmest tropical oceans. As a solitary creature whale sharks are rarely seen in groups unless feeding in locations with an abundance of food. And it is thought that males have a greater migration than females and appear to favour specific locations such as those mentioned above.

Like many of its relatives, whale sharks are in decline and are listed as vulnerable by the IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources). The placid nature of these animals makes them an easy target for fisheries both for its meat and fins which are highly valued in the international shark fin trade. Gathering whale shark data and information is critical to their international protection, proving just how endangered they are.

Ten Tips to Help Conserve Whale Sharks

• When diving or snorkelling with whale sharks please remember to maintain a minimum distance to avoid injury to yourself and the shark. A minimum distance of 3 metres should be kept from the whale shark’s body and 4 metres from the tail.
• Resist the temptation to touch, ride or chase whale sharks.
• Allow normal movement, behaviour and direction in which the shark is travelling. Whale sharks can become agitated by aggressive behaviour and cause possible injury.
• Take photographs without the use of a flash as this could cause harm or stress to the animal.
• Swim slowly and deliberately without using motorised diver propulsion vehicles. Boat users should ensure that they keep a distance of 100 metres.
• Follow and abide by local regulations.                                    
• Support legislation for increased whale shark protection.
• Further your knowledge by completing a Whale Shark Awareness Distinctive Specialty. Contact a participating dive centre
• Request a Whale Shark Project brochure. Free copies are available by emailing your postal address to info@projectaware.org.uk
• Record and report your sightings, data and photos to the Whale Shark Photo Identification Database. Download a copy of the data reference sheet.

By getting involved in this initiative you are making a difference. Help us ensure future generations of divers will continue to encounter these magnificent creatures which are under threat today.