Is a Whale Shark a Whale or a Shark?

It’s a shark! 🦈 Even though its name can be confusing, the whale shark is not a whale at all. It’s the largest species of shark—and the biggest fish in the entire ocean.

Whales are mammals, like humans. They breathe air, give birth to live babies, and feed their young with milk. Sharks, on the other hand, are fish. They have gills for breathing underwater and don’t nurse their young. The whale shark belongs to the shark family, even though it can grow longer than a school bus!

Why is it called a “whale” shark?

The name comes from its size. Adult whale sharks can grow up to 40 feet long, which is about the same length as some whales. So scientists added “whale” to its name to remind us how gigantic it is.

Fun Whale Shark Facts for Kids


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