First Successful Wild Whale Shark Health Assessments Performed

For the first time ever, scientists from the Georgia Aquarium, working with Conservation International and UNIPA (University of Papua) successfully performed health assessments, including collecting blood and biological samples, taking measurements and attaching satellite tracking tags, to a population of wild whale sharks – the world’s largest fish, classified as “endangered” since 2016. The research advancement, which occurred in Indonesia’s remote Cendrawasih Bay, has significant implications for unlocking the mysteries surrounding the overall health of whale sharks — including the potential impacts of tourism on their health. These details can better inform future conservation policies to protect and encourage their population recovery.

The scientific milestone will expand the community’s understanding of this endangered species. To read the report click HERE.