The whale shark is the largest fish in the ocean, growing up to 40 feet long or more. Despite their massive size, these gentle giants are known for their friendly nature and feed primarily on tiny plankton. They have a distinctive pattern of white spots and stripes on their dark blue-gray skin, making them easy to identify. Whale sharks are found in warm waters around the world, often near coastal areas. They are migratory creatures, traveling long distances in search of food. Sadly, their populations are threatened due to overfishing and habitat loss, making conservation efforts essential for their survival.