How big do whale sharks get?

Until today, the proven length of the whale sharks is around 45 feet (13.7 metres). Still experts have only just come up with the precise length of 39 feet 8.5 inches (12.1 metres) long, which is the largest size of the whale shark measured in recent times. read more

Whale sharks have very large mouths and are filter feeders, which is a feeding mode that occurs in only two other sharks, the megamouth shark and the basking shark. They feed almost exclusively on plankton and are not known to pose a threat to humans. read more

3. WHALE SHARKS GROW UP FAST. Thirty or 40-foot adult whale sharks have few natural enemies. Juveniles, on the other hand, are easy pickings for predators like blue sharks and marlins. These youngsters have every incentive to get big quick—which is exactly what they do. read more