20 metres

Average size Typically seen offshore, they have been found closer to land, entering lagoons, coral atolls and river mouths. This species is capable of diving to depths of at least 1286 metres, though they are most often seen at the surface. Seasonal aggregations occur at several coastal sites, where hundreds of individuals gather to take advantage of a reliable food source Despite its immense size, the whale shark poses no threat to humans. Encounters are possible while scuba diving, but the best way to swim with these gentle giants is to snorkel with them at the surface.

One of the best places to do this is in

Isla Mujeres, Mexico, where hundreds of individuals gather seasonally to feed on spawning bonito eggs. Other famous aggregations occur in Australia, the Philippines and the Maldives