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whale shark
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Rhincodon typus | Observed: June - November
The whale shark is the world's largest fish attaining an average size of 4 - 12 metres (13 - 39 ft). Despite their large size, whale sharks do not pose a significant danger to humans. These sharks are filter feeders, consuming plankton and small nektonic life, such as small squid or fish.
In one of their filter-feeding methods, they suction water into their mouths at high velocities while remaining stationary and sometimes in a vertical position. Food moves through filtering pads that cover the entrance of their throats, allowing water to pass through while capturing food particles.
Whale sharks possess a disruptive coloration displaying a "checkerboard" pattern of light colored spots with vertical and horizontal stripes against a dark colored background. This pattern is unique to each shark, comparable to a fingerprint for humans.
Whale sharks are found in Bahia de Los Angeles from June to November. They thrive in water temperature ranging between 20 - 25°C (68 - 78°F).