Fin's Fish Guide
The Basking shark (Rhincodon typus) is a saltwater fish of the family Rhincodontidae that grows up to 1700 cm.
Description
The whale shark is the largest fish in the world; it can reach a length of over 12 metres and possibly up to about 18-20 metres. It has a bulky, grey-blue body with a striking pattern of light spots and stripes and an enormous, broad mouth at the front of the head. Despite its size it is completely harmless to humans: it is a filter feeder that sifts large volumes of water with its widely gaping mouth and so extracts plankton, small crustaceans, fish eggs and small fishes. It lives oceanically but also comes close inshore, sometimes into lagoons and atolls. Owing to fishing and bycatch the species is regarded as endangered.
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Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Basking shark?
The Basking shark has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Basking shark live?
The Basking shark lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water.
How big does the Basking shark get?
The Basking shark grows to a maximum of about 1700 cm. On average the species is around 1000 cm.
Is the Basking shark dangerous to humans?
No, the Basking shark is harmless to humans.
Is the Basking shark edible?
The Basking shark is rarely eaten.
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