Whale Sharks. Biology, Ecology and Conservation

Whale sharks are the largest of all fishes, fascinating for comparative studies across many biological fields, including functional anatomy, growth, metabolism, movement ecology, behavior, and physiology. These gentle ocean giants have captured the interest of scientists and the imagination of the public, yet their future is uncertain. The conservation status of whale sharks has been upgraded to Endangered on the IUCN Red List, and the species faces a range of intense threats from human activities.
Can these iconic animals, which have survived for millions of years, survive us ? Written by the world's leading experts in whale shark biology, ecology, and conservation, Whale Sharks : Biology, Ecology, and Conservation is the first definitive volume devoted to the world's largest fish. Chapters discuss satellite-linked tags used to track whale shark movements, genetic sequencing to examine evolutionary adaptations, and even the use of underwater ultrasound to investigate the species' reproduction.
By bringing together current knowledge, the editors aim to help future researchers, conservationists, and resource managers address remaining knowledge gaps and develop effective conservation strategies. As readers progress through the book, they are invited to develop a sense of awe at the extraordinary nature of this species and to reflect on the privilege of sharing the oceans—and the planet—with such remarkable creatures.