Whale sharks are the largest fish in the ocean and are the only members of the prehistoric Rhincodontida family. Scientists believe that the whale shark species originated around 60 million years ago. These large fish are usually considered, by those who study them, as the most friendly giants of the ocean thanks to their peaceful nature and diet based on microscopic plankton and oceanic nekton. Whale sharks inhabit the open ocean of the world's tropical oceans and are rarely found in seas with temperatures below 21 ° C (70 ° F). They are classified as an endangered species. The largest whale shark ever measured was found off the coast of Pakistan and measured 12.65 meters (41.50 feet) in length and had a circumference of 7 meters (23.0 feet). While the name "whale shark" may be somewhat confusing, whale sharks are, in fact, sharks, not whales. They share many particular characteristics of sharks, including a cartilaginous skeleton, five to seven gill slits on the sides of the head and pectoral fins that are not fused with their heads. Whale sharks are some of the most impressive animals in the world - and although they are sharks, they are also one of the most gentle fish in the ocean. In fact, whale sharks are so gentle, it's completely safe to swim with them. To meet these amazing animals, book right here