How do whale sharks feed without hunting large prey?
Quick Answer
Whale sharks are filter feeders that swim with open mouths to strain plankton, small fish, and other tiny organisms. They can filter vast amounts of water while cruising slowly.
The Full Story
Whale sharks are the largest fish alive, but they feed on some of the ocean's smallest organisms. They use filter-feeding structures in the mouth and gills to strain plankton, fish eggs, and small fish from the water. They often feed near the surface or around productive currents where food is abundant. Despite their size, they are gentle animals and pose no threat to humans. Their feeding style is very different from the predatory sharks most people imagine.
Key Facts
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