Family
Common name: Whale Shark Family
Scientific name: Rhincodontidae
Rhincodontidae, commonly known as the Whale Shark Family, consists of a single extant species, the whale shark (Rhincodon typus). These gentle giants are the largest fish in the ocean, reaching lengths of up to 12 meters. They are filter feeders, primarily eating plankton, and are known for their distinctive spotted patterns. Whale sharks are highly migratory and can be found in tropical oceans around the world. In the aquarium trade, they are not suitable for home aquariums due to their massive size and complex needs, but they are a popular species in large public aquaria.
