YGA Journal | Article

World Whale Shark Day

Beneath the Waves with Ocean Giants

Dive into the captivating article for World Whale Shark Day, taking a look at their vital ecological significance, the challenges posed by habitat degradation and unlawful exploitation, and the collaborative measures imperative to ensure their safeguarding. Learn about ways to advance their preservation via enlightened consumer decisions, advocacy, and endorsement of respected conservation groups in this enlightening piece!

Article

Published August 30, 2023

Written by Reet K. Brar

Beneath the shimmering waves of our planet’s oceans lies a realm of mystery, inhabited by majestic creatures that captivate one’s imagination. Among these oceanic giants, the whale shark stands out as an icon of the deep blue sea. On August 30th, we gather to celebrate Whale Shark Day, an occasion that sheds light on these gentle leviathans and their vital role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems. Whale Shark Awareness Day is a call to action and a tribute to the world’s largest fish which has recently been declared endangered. Beyond their massive size and undeniable beauty, these marine wonders hold a critical role in maintaining the health of the ocean. This day serves as a reminder of our responsibility to protect and conserve these giants of the sea. As we dive into the depths of this article, we will explore the significance of the day, the lives of these magnificent animals, their importance to the oceans, and the collective efforts made by organizations to ensure their survival. (Whale Shark, WWF)

Leviathan of the Sea (Pierce)

Immersing ourselves in the depths of the ocean, we encounter a world where the whale shark is the highlight of the ecosystem. Whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) are the gentle giants of the sea, who do an astounding job at capturing the attention of scientists, conservationists, and ocean enthusiasts alike. Stretching up to an astounding 60 feet in length, they hold the title of the largest fish and shark in the world. Their distinctive appearance, marked by their unique pattern of pale spots and stripes on a dark body, set them apart from other marine life. These magnificent creatures are recognized and renowned for their peaceful nature and serene movement. Their incredible size also displays their true strength and agility which allows them to travel vast distances across oceans in search of food and suitable breeding grounds. Additionally, their migratory patterns have captured the attention of researchers, who use advanced tracking techniques to trace their journeys and unlock the mysteries of their behaviours. (American Museum of Natural History)

One of the most captivating aspects of whale sharks’ lives is their feeding strategy. Despite their size, they are filter feeders, which means they primarily consume plankton, krill, and small fish by filtering through the water in the ocean. They are essential to the marine food chain as they help regulate the populations of their prey species. Their role as ecological influencers underscores their importance in maintaining the delicate balance of the ocean’s ecosystems. Their presence indicates the health of the oceans and the intricate relationships that define underwater life. (Whale Shark, Oceana)

The majestic whale shark feeding on small fish (Dirscherl)

While whale sharks are a testament to the beauty of the natural world, they also face challenges that threaten their existence. “The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) has declared the species endangered due to the impacts of fisheries, by-catch losses, trash pollution, and vessel strikes.” (Why are whale sharks endangered & how to help) Alongside, habitat degradation, accidental entanglement in fishing gear, and even the demand for their fins pose a threat to these gentle species. Habitat degradation stands as a significant driver of the whale shark’s endangered status. With coastal development, pollution, and climate change altering marine ecosystems, these creatures are left with fewer places to call home. The degradation of their feeding and breeding grounds is an obstacle when they are searching for food or a place to reproduce, directly impacting their populations. Unregulated fishing practices, including bycatch and targeted hunting, further hurt these magnificent beings. Despite their harmless nature, whale sharks fall victim to accidental entanglement in fishing gear intended for other species, contributing to their decline. Moreover, the demand for their fins, meat, and other body parts in illegal markets drives a destructive trade that threatens their survival. However, the global community of conservationists, researchers, and local communities has rallied to protect these magnificent creatures. (Threats)

Innocent whale shark taken from the ocean (Why are whale sharks endangered & how to help)

On this day, let us become stewards of the oceans, and take initiative towards helping these innocent creatures.

Here’s how YOU can take help:

  1. Donate and Volunteer with Conservation Organizations: Support organizations like the Whale Shark & Oceanic Research Center that conduct vital research and conservation efforts. Feel free to start your own organization too!
  2. Advocate for Regulations: Speak up for stricter fishing regulations to prevent bycatch and protect marine ecosystems. This can be done through different forms of media such as posters, presentations, discussions, social media, news outlets etc. Try your best to educate people around you!
  3. Reduce Plastic Usage: Minimize plastic waste to prevent pollution that harms marine environments.

As we acknowledge Whale Shark Awareness Day, we are reminded that every small action contributes to the preservation of these marine wonders and the oceans they inhabit. It encourages us to recognize the vital role that these gentle giants play in maintaining our world, and the changes we must bring to our lifestyles to ensure they have a brighter future. By embracing responsible choices, promoting conservation efforts, and using our voices to call for change, we can become part of a strong movement. Let the legacy we leave behind be one of determination and a shared commitment to securing the future of the whale sharks.

References

American Museum of Natural History. “Whale Shark: The World’s Largest Fish: AMNH.” American Museum of Natural History, 6 May 2013,

www.amnh.org/explore/news-blogs/on-exhibit-posts/whale-shark-largest-fish#:~:text=The%20w hale%20shark%20(Rhincodon%20typus,than%2040%20feet%20in%20length.

Dhont, Louis. “Where Is the Best Place to Swim with Whale Sharks?” Jacada Travel, 27 July 2023, www.jacadatravel.com/all/travel-guides/best-place-swim-whale-sharks/.

Dirscherl, Reinhard. “10 Facts about the World’s Largest Shark.” ThoughtCo, ThoughtCo, 28 July 2019, www.thoughtco.com/facts-about-whale-sharks-2291601.

Pierce, Simon J. “Whale Sharks Are World’s Biggest Omnivores, Study Finds.” The Guardian, Guardian News and Media, 25 July 2022, www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/jul/25/whale-sharks-become-worlds-biggest-omnivores-study-finds.

“Threats.” WHALE SHARKS, blogs.ntu.edu.sg/hp3203-2018-23/reasons-for-endangerment/. Accessed 29 Aug. 2023.

“Whale Shark.” Oceana, 27 June 2023, oceana.org/marine-life/whale-shark/.

“Whale Shark.” WWF, World Wildlife Fund, www.worldwildlife.org/species/whale-shark. Accessed 29 Aug. 2023.

“Why Are Whale Sharks Endangered & How to Help.” American Oceans, 21 Aug. 2023, www.americanoceans.org/blog/why-are-whale-sharks-endangered/.