Tubarãobaleias

Tubarãobaleias, scientific name Rhincodon typus, are the largest fish in the ocean. Despite their immense size, they are filter feeders, consuming plankton and small fish. They are found in warm tropical and temperate waters worldwide. Tubarãobaleias are characterized by their broad, flat heads and distinctive checkerboard pattern of white spots and stripes on their dark grey skin. These markings are unique to each individual, similar to human fingerprints. They have a slow swimming speed and are generally considered docile, often allowing divers and snorkelers to swim near them. Reproduction in tubarãobaleias is poorly understood, but it is believed they give birth to live young. They are a long-lived species, with some individuals estimated to live for 70 years or more. Globally, tubarãobaleias are listed as endangered due to threats such as fishing (both targeted and bycatch), ship strikes, and pollution. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these magnificent creatures.