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2004 California Academy of Sciences   cc-by-nc-sa-3.0

Rhincodon typus (Whale Shark) is a species of modern sharks in the family whale sharks. They are listed as endangered by IUCN and in cites appendix ii. They are native to Asia, Pacific Ocean, Oceania continent (Australia, NZ and islands), Atlantic Ocean, Ethiopia, and Indian Ocean. They are solitary, diurnal carnivores. Individuals can grow to 2000 cm. They have parental care (female provides care). They rely on swimming to move around.

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  • URI: http://eol.org/schema/terms/CITES_II
  • Definition: Appendix II lists species that are not necessarily now threatened with extinction but that may become so unless trade is closely controlled. It also includes so-called "look-alike species", i.e. species whose specimens in trade look like those of species listed for conservation reasons. International trade in specimens of Appendix-II species may be authorized by the granting of an export permit or re-export certificate. No import permit is necessary for these species under CITES (although a permit is needed in some countries that have taken stricter measures than CITES requires). Permits or certificates should only be granted if the relevant authorities are satisfied that certain conditions are met, above all that trade will not be detrimental to the survival of the species in the wild. (See Article IV of the Convention)
  • Source: https://www.speciesplus.net/#/taxon_concepts/6257/legal
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Known occurrences, collected specimens and observations of Whale Shark. View this species on GBIF