SUMMARY
Researchers attached small camera tags to the dorsal fins of five juvenile whale sharks for 24-hour periods. This data has been used to create the largest catalog of whale shark behaviors to date, significantly altering scientific understanding of how these large fish feed. Contrary to prior beliefs, whale sharks do not predominantly feed near the surface, but rather employ a variety of methods including sinking with open mouths and engaging in both low-effort and active feeding behaviors.
TAKEAWAYS
Camera tags provided 24 hours of data on whale shark behavior.
New findings challenge the assumption that whale sharks primarily feed at the surface.
The study revealed diverse feeding strategies, including sinking with mouths open.
This research contributes to understanding how whale sharks survive in tropical waters.