Whale Sharks: Biology, Ecology, and Conservation

One of life’s greatest joys is being eye-to-eye with the world’s largest fish – the awe inspiring and ever mysterious whale shark. In this comprehensive and extensively referenced volume, Dove and Pierce have brought together the world’s leading scientists to review this shark’s fascinating biology and its elusive ecology. More than a collection of scientific facts, it is roadmap for the conservation actions needed to ensure humanity continues to benefit from this "utterly extraordinary species". Whether you are an inquisitive citizen scientist or a trained expert, you will find awe aplenty within its pages. -- Dr. George Leonard. Chief Scientist, Ocean Conservancy Al Dove and Simon Pierce showcase the magnificent whale shark like never before! Within the pages of Whale Sharks: Biology, Ecology, and Conservation this enigmatic creature is revealed scientifically with an easy-to-understand style. Of special interest is the attention given to the range of threats facing whale sharks and the vital need for conservation. Open the pages of this book and be transported into the mysterious world of whale sharks! -- Brian Skerry, award-winning Photographer at National Geographic Magazine and Fellow at National Geographic Society The largest and arguably one of the most magnificent fish in the sea finally gets the attention it deserves in this volume dedicated to these gentle giants. Whale Sharks have previously been relegated to passing mentions in many treatments of shark biology. While many important volumes have been published on the more charismatic Great White Shark, Whale Sharks have been largely neglected. Studies of these large ocean travelers are difficult, compounded by their large size and often rare appearances. Few have been maintained in captive facilities, though data from these few are beginning to reveal secrets of their biology that may aid in protecting their fragile biology. At long last, Dr. Al Dove and Dr. Simon Pierce have assembled a collection of papers from foremost experts who study these ocean wanderers, and together they provide insight into important facets of their biology. The authors’ particular insights suggest strategies aimed at protecting these sharks through wise management practices and conservation efforts. This volume belongs on the shelf of every ichthyologist and every scientist concerned for the fate of the oceans’ largest fish. -- Jeffrey C. Carrier, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Biology, Albion College, Senior Editor, The Biology of Sharks and Their Relatives series One of life’s greatest joys is being eye-to-eye with the world’s largest fish – the awe inspiring and ever mysterious whale shark. In this comprehensive and extensively referenced volume, Dove and Pierce have brought together the world’s leading scientists to review this shark’s fascinating biology and its elusive ecology. More than a collection of scientific facts, it is roadmap for the conservation actions needed to ensure humanity continues to benefit from this "utterly extraordinary species". Whether you are an inquisitive citizen scientist or a trained expert, you will find awe aplenty within its pages. -- Dr. George Leonard. Chief Scientist, Ocean Conservancy Al Dove and Simon Pierce showcase the magnificent whale shark like never before! Within the pages of Whale Sharks: Biology, Ecology, and Conservation this enigmatic creature is revealed scientifically with an easy-to-understand style. Of special interest is the attention given to the range of threats facing whale sharks and the vital need for conservation. Open the pages of this book and be transported into the mysterious world of whale sharks! -- Brian Skerry, award-winning Photographer at National Geographic Magazine and Fellow at National Geographic Society The largest and arguably one of the most magnificent fish in the sea finally gets the attention it deserves in this volume dedicated to these gentle giants. Whale Sharks have previously been relegated to passing mentions in many treatments of shark biology. While many important volumes have been published on the more charismatic Great White Shark, Whale Sharks have been largely neglected. Studies of these large ocean travelers are difficult, compounded by their large size and often rare appearances. Few have been maintained in captive facilities, though data from these few are beginning to reveal secrets of their biology that may aid in protecting their fragile biology. At long last, Dr. Al Dove and Dr. Simon Pierce have assembled a collection of papers from foremost experts who study these ocean wanderers, and together they provide insight into important facets of their biology. The authors’ particular insights suggest strategies aimed at protecting these sharks through wise management practices and conservation efforts. This volume belongs on the shelf of every ichthyologist and every scientist concerned for the fate of the oceans’ largest fish. -- Jeffrey C. Carrier, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Biology, Albion College, Senior Editor, The Biology of Sharks and Their Relatives series