INTERNATIONAL WHALE SHARK
PHOTO ID CITIZEN SCIENCE RESEARCH
This Whale Shark Project is a global citizen science initiative that uses photo identification to study and protect whale sharks. Divers and snorkelers from around the world can contribute simply by photographing the unique spot patterns and scars on these gentle giants. Each photo helps identify individual sharks, allowing researchers to track movements, behavior, and population trends over time.
Listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, whale sharks face increasing threats from human activity. By contributing to this project, your photos support long-term mark-recapture studies that help build accurate population models. This data is vital for local, regional, and international conservation efforts—informing policies and guiding actions to ensure the survival of the world’s largest fish.
24,311
Identified sharks
132,075
Reported sightings
132,075
Citizen scientists
443
Researchers & Volunteers
HOW TO CONTRIBUTE TO WHALE SHARK RESEARCH
Follow these 4 simple steps to help identify and protect Whale sharks
STEP 1: Following these guidelines during observations and while taking Whale shark ID photos.
DO:
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Approach calmly and slowly, maintaining good buoyancy control at all times.
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Always approach from the left side of the shark, never head-on.
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Stay at least 5 meters away from the shark, especially when taking ID photos.
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Keep clear of the tail area to avoid startling or disturbing the shark.
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Be respectful of other divers and limit your interaction to 5 minutes if other groups are waiting.
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Avoid using excessive flash when taking photographs.
STEP 2: Take position and take the ID photo
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Photograph the LEFT side of the whale shark.
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Ensure the image includes part of the pectoral fin and the first dorsal fin.
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Take the photo horizontally and as level as possible.
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Avoid any other fish (e.g., remoras) between the shark and the camera.
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If possible, identify the shark’s sex (males have claspers near the pelvic fins).
STEP 3: Capture distinctive features
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Photograph any unique scars, markings, or injuries that could help distinguish this whale shark from others.
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These features are important for long-term identification and tracking.
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Focus on visible features such as notches on fins, bite marks, or unusual color patterns.
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Take close-up shots of distinctive areas if the shark’s behavior allows safe observation.
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If the shark has a tag or tag scar, be sure to include it in your photos.
STEP 4: Record and submit your sighting
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Note the date and location (GPS coordinates or dive/snorkel site name) of your whale shark encounter.
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Submit your photos and observations to the international database.
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Include any additional notes about the shark’s behavior (e.g., feeding, cruising, diving).
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Mention estimated size and sex, if observed, to assist with data accuracy.
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Indicate if there were other sharks present or notable environmental conditions (e.g., visibility, currents).
WHALE SHARK CITIZEN SCIENCE RESEARCH
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