Conservation movements have made giant leaps in protecting sharks, but the numbers are still staggering. WWF works to sustain the natural world for the benefit of people and wildlife, collaborating with partners from local to global levels in nearly 100 countries. As a result, animal welfare activists have called for an end to marine parks, roadside zoos, and aquariums that keep ocean animals in captivity. [23] Previous studies estimating the growth and longevity of whale sharks have produced estimates ranging from 14 to 21.9 meters (46 to 72ft) in length. [10][11][12] Whale sharks have very large mouths and are filter feeders, which is a feeding mode that occurs in only two other sharks, the megamouth shark and the basking shark. WWF is working to protect them. Washington, DC 20037. We are part of Science 2.0,a science education nonprofit operating under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The idea of confining any creature for our profit and amusement is abhorrent and arrogant. Most tagged sharks stay within 125 miles from shore. Alice, who was one of the whale sharks brought to the Georgia Aquarium, recently died (June 2021) after living there for . whale shark lifespan in captivity. I would not now go to a zoo and stand there, looking at whale sharks or lions and think, Hey, that animal looks so powerful and amazing behind that glass, so big and beautiful. And to also think and feel that it belongs there for me to look at, often for an hour or two, once every couple of months or so? For and against aquariums: There has been much proof on top of dolphins in captivity being harmed, distressed and even dying through the trauma of capture and also other problems and consequences that people just do not want to face up to. The whale shark is a shark and a fish since sharks are fish. [19][20], The complete and annotated genome of the whale shark was published in 2017. I believe that the aquarium investigated to the best of their abilities. Whale sharks are notorious for dying in captivity. Because they eat plankton and nekton, they are one of the most harmless animals in the ocean, and they have been observed avoiding human contact. I think that it is important to educate people of the conditions that wild animals are facing, however having the whale shark at the aquarium is very profitable, with such activities as being able to swim with the shark. @WhySharksMatter I would love to see a proper study on whether or not aquariums influence people to go into marine biology.. As such, the presence of microplastics in whale shark scat was recently confirmed. Sometimes they are accidentally caught in fishing nets or fish traps but are way too heavy for the fishermen to bring up. Although the deaths of the two whale sharks are still ambiguous, I am satisfied with the explanation. Estimated lifespan: 80 to 130 years. Do you think that it is acceptable for whale sharks to be held in captivity? I volunteered at an aquarium briefly until I discovered they were continually displaying animals that were dying of stress, the mentality being "Well, we'll just get a new one" than deciding not to display the species anymore. WWF and 1986 Panda Symbol are owned by WWF. Whale sharks are unique and important animals, but they are under threat. Captive killer whale populations are a cruel and destructive process that deprives captive orca of their life as well as the ecosystems in which they exist. While I do not think that animals should be held in captivity just for peoples entertainment, I believe that the whale sharks in the Georgia Aquarium actually benefit from living at the aquarium. I like that people can see whats in the ocean up close; a lot of people do not have the opportunity to snorkel or scuba dive, and it can be hard to see things even if you do! But the Atlanta aquarium isn't the first place to struggle with keeping whale sharks alive in captivity. They have a long muzzle and sharp fangs designed to, Over at Sciam's Mind Matters, Melody Dye has a great post on the surprising advantages of thinking like a baby. , And, after watching the response of thousands of children, I have no doubt that at least a few of them will want to become marine biologists as a result of their visit to the Aquarium to see whale sharks.. Yes, I disagree with the statement "aquariums have to draw visitors." Being able to dive with whale sharks would be an unforgettable experience and instead of hoping to spot them in the wild (with a more than hefty price tag) you can support the Georgia Aquarium programs and these animals by paying a fee and being guaranteed a swim with the whale sharks. "An Unprecedented Aggregation of Whale Sharks, "Attempted Whale Shark Mating Caught on Camera for the First Time in History", "Paternity analysis in a litter of whale shark embryos", "Tiny whale shark rescued World news World environment", "St Helena whale sharks cause stir in Atlanta", "Feeding anatomy, filter-feeding rate, and diet of whale sharks, "Microplastics in fecal samples of whale sharks (, Watch Iranian fisherman 'surf' on top of a whale shark across the Persian Gulf, Establishing a quantifiable model of whale shark avoidance behaviours to anthropogenic impacts in tourism encounters to inform management actions, Pictures of the Day: Tuesday, Aug. 04, 2009, Snorkelling with whale sharks in Djibouti, "Global collision-risk hotspots of marine traffic and the world's largest fish, the whale shark", "Memorandum of understanding on the conservation of migratory sharks", Whale Sharks Receive Protection in the Philippines, National Regulations on Whale Shark fishing. However, standing at the oceans edge does not compare to the excitement and discovery I experienced at the Baltimore aquarium. Also, as mentioned in the article, if they were not there they would just be used as food. If no-one can see sense on this, maybe they should stop acting like they know better and research on animlas, conservation, bio-diversity and the need that animals have in the wild that can not be met in captivity. In both cases, the filter pads serve to separate food from water. [58] The many rows of vestigial teeth play no role in feeding. The Aquarium is also involved in rescue and rehabilitation efforts for marine mammals, birds, and sea turtles. Will Betta Fish Kill Each Other, Guppies, Goldfish or Plecos? I believe that there are pros and cons to keeping whale sharks at an aquarium; however I do think that some of the pros given in this article require further explanation. How do you know for certain that the whale sharks were going to be eaten? This article is very interesting to me, I thought the interview was a really good idea, and having it opened it up to the public even more. Unfortunately, whale shark tourism does not always take into account the creatures best interests, nor does it take into account the environment. Do you think that it is acceptable for whale sharks to be held in captivity?. But thats probably a different discussion . They have access to world-class medical care and healthy food. For the sake of conservation and getting the public excited about loving and protecting sharks, these whale sharks and the like must be taken into captivity to let people see them. Money generated by ticket sales goes towards whale shark research and conservation in the wild, and the aquarium itself is full of excellent signage and enthusiastic volunteers who educate people about sharks. That would be a bad idea and there is no telling how many whale sharks are dying out in the wild, but they are. The whale sharks at the Georgia Aquarium, as seen through this interview, are obviously very well taken care of. whale shark lifespan in captivity. Adults are often found feeding at the surface, but may dive to 1000m. Not to be redundant, but one must consider the small percentage of these creatures that are being put on display for the greater good of the entire species. 2023 World Wildlife Fund. The trend at the moment is for whale sharks, what will be next? Flying Fish Facts, Habitat, Classification & FAQ, Delicious Deep Sea Fish to Eat: Try These Tasty Saltwater Fish Treats, How Deep Sea Fish Survive Extreme Pressure and not Get Crushed. but that is a different story , I think I would be much more passionate about the release of these animals if the wild was a safe place for them. If anything was being learned from these experiences, if papers were being produced and published, I could at least understand the case for keeping such animals in captivity, but no such efforts seem to be made, the big fish just making for bigger box-office takes than education. By sparking the awareness, fascination (funds) for these creatures they are given a greater opportunity for survival in the big picture. The media and animal activists love to dwell in the seeming I told you so stories (such as the death of the two whale sharks) however, seeing how they WERE destined to die before they were even brought to live in the seemingly ample conditions in the first place, it is not as if their lives were extended somewhat anyways. The principle aim to this documentary is that orcas should not be held in captivity because it is detrimental to their mind citing past incidents throughout Tilikum's life. [12][27][25] There was uncertainty as to whether vertebrae growth bands are formed annually or biannually, which is important in determining the age, growth, and longevity of whale sharks. No dead whale sharks were found. Whale sharks are the largest fish species in the world, growing up to 18 meters long, and are migratory animals who can travel thousands of miles in one season. The whale shark story also reminds me of the constant attempts to keep a great white in captivity; they always have to be returned to the ocean because they stop eating or keep ramming the walls. Too many sea creatures are being fished from coral reefs and our oceans to fill the growing demand to see wild animals up close, through pet shops, tropical fish collections and aquariums. 2006-2020 Science 2.0. As far as the whale shark goes, I feel it is very beneficial for them to be relocated in Georgia because I myself have never seen a whale shark in person but I loved to read of their massive size and how they survived on such little prey in zoo books growing up and this exhibit will help to as well explain these animals to many who will never get to experience them in real life. I am not yet convinced that it is good to keep in captivity. For animals that are threatened by extinction, temporary captivity in order to increase reproduction and/or population may be advantageous, but this, of course, is also dependent upon the species (long gestation, aggressive, prey/predator) and its natural environment. Under the Georgia Aquariums circumstances, which may or may not be common within the realm of renowned aquariums, I must agree with their efforts of keeping these incredible whale sharks captive. [49] Mating in this species was filmed for the first time in whale sharks off Ningaloo Reef via airplane in Australia in 2019, when a larger male unsuccessfully attempted to mate with a smaller, immature female. It is very much acceptable for whale sharks to be held in captivity, especially in an environment that takes their best upbringing into great consideration. Please make a tax-deductible donation if you value independent science communication, collaboration, participation, and open access. They need to be released after that. Despite the fact that scientists estimate that whale sharks can live to be 60 years old, the true lifespan of these gentle giants is unknown. The whale shark is, to me, the most beautiful and captivating animal at the Georgia Aquarium. This has become a weapon used by activists in their arguments against captivity, but is ultimately biased. Ethically, though, I dont have a problem with them keeping whale sharks, once I get over the shock of the idea. I visited this aquarium a while back and feel like they are just like every other aquarium. This is also called passive feeding, which usually occurs when prey is present at low density. People that work in the aquarium are able to observe the animals habits, and promote those observations to others in a way that will help the species as a whole. 03 Jun. They bought the shark from fisherman. The biggest benefit I see by their presence in the Georgia Aquarium, however, is their ability to spark the imagination of millions of kids. I think if one could demonstrate that, it would be much easier to argue acceptability. [47] Aggregations in that area are among the most reliable seasonal gatherings known for whale sharks, with large numbers occurring in most years between May and September. A study. ), but here are the opening paragraphs: Their interaction with the animals, including whale sharks, in the aquarium prepares them for the possibility of working in the animals natural environment in the future. [26][27][28][29] The maximum length of the species is uncertain due to a lack of detailed documentation of the largest reported individuals. [54][55], In a report from Rappler last August 2019, whale sharks were sighted during WWF Philippines photo identification activities in the first half of the year. As a result, we as humans can make a positive difference in the lives of our ocean friends by saying no to captivity and allowing injured wildlife to be rehabilitated and released. Whale sharks are the world's largest fish, measuring up to 45 feet in length and adults weigh about 41,000 pounds. Certain behaviors are indicative. The dive with the sharks program seems to be a great program for shark lovers and people who want to explore the sharks living environment. I believe that there are animal rights groups that truly make a difference in the life of endangered species, however the way that the argument is presented educating benefits the whale shark population in the wild, does not clear explain the actual benefits that this education has produced. It uses quick bursts of speed to ambush its favorite prey seals and sea lions. Since the 1990s, aquariums in several countries, such as Japan, South Korea, China, Taiwan, India, and Dubai, have kept them. I know this is true killer whales, not sure how whale sharks fare. [72], It is listed, along with six other species of sharks, under the CMS Memorandum of Understanding on the Conservation of Migratory Sharks. "We don't know enough about whale sharks to say we can keep them alive for long periods of time in a captive environment," said Jason A. Holmberg, a scientist with the Earthwatch Institute who is studying whale sharks in the Ningaloo Reef in Australia. There are organizations out there that nurse animals back to health and release them into the wild. That was hardly a medical assessment, though. As aquariums strive to improve their animals lives, Georgia Aquarium is doing everything it can to ensure their safety and wellbeing. Another thing I would like to address is the money factor. Needless to say, the move comes with the usual mixture of emotions, as I've greatly enjoyed my four years as part of the, Over at Gizmodo, Joel Johnson makes a convincing argument for adding random strangers to your twitter feed: [85], Since the mid-1990s, several other aquariums have kept the species in Japan (Kagoshima Aquarium, Kinosaki Marine World, Notojima Aquarium, Oita Ecological Aquarium, and Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise), South Korea (Aqua Planet Jeju), China (Chimelong Ocean Kingdom, Dalian Aquarium, Guangzhou Aquarium in Guangzhou Zoo, Qingdao Polar Ocean World and Yantai Aquarium), Taiwan (National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium), India (Thiruvananthapuram Aquarium) and Dubai (Atlantis, The Palm), with some maintaining whale sharks for years and others only for a very short period. We cannot love something that is abstract, distant or hidden, or else we love the mere fact that it IS abstract, distant or hidden. Again you raise the bar for science blogs and science reporting. If keeping some creatures in captivity helps educate people so that they help save all the endangered places and creatures, then it is a necessary price to pay. I can speak to professional aquarists on Tuesday if youd like. They need to be free and not turning and turning in a big box. World Wildlife Fund Inc. is a nonprofit, tax-exempt charitable organization (tax ID number 52-1693387) under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. No other animals were caught as a result of these ones being used by the aquarium. The suffering of animals in captivity is far worse than that of those in zoos or aquariums, and the loss of their natural habitats prevents them from fulfilling their natural needs and living healthy and free lives. There was not enough information as to why the second one died. The fact that there stress levels are lower in the aquarium then in the wild shows that they clearly are not suffering from their current condition. The same documentary showed footage of a whale shark timing its arrival to coincide with the mass spawning of fish shoals and feeding on the resultant clouds of eggs and sperm. As an aside, Im still horrified by the irony of a film about the misery of being held in a tank leading to an explosion in the keeping of tropical fish in tanks. Also, whered they get veterinarians trained to manage whale shark health? Further, as we saw with Finding Nemo, increased exposure of fish can lead to an increased rate of fish-keeping and increased pressure on fish stocks. I agree that it was right for the Georgia Aquarium to buy the sharks form the fishermen. The oldest reported female is 40 years old. No problem Laelaps. They were purchased from fisherman who had already caught them and were instead going to sell them to a fish market. However, Im not entirely sold on the care system. Unless evidence was found a la The Cove that whale sharks are so unhappy in captivity or people would stop freaking finning sharks into extinction, I think they should probably stay where they are. One of the interesting things is that whale sharks are there to educate the public, however where are the whale sharks mainly found? Whether we knew it or not, we were learning. I dont think a fish, even a big fish such as a whale shark has as much of an intellectual sense as say a monkey. They are not the ones to blame; they have taken the proper procautions in order to make sure they were taken care of. The average life expectancy differs by shark species, and sharks in captivity have a shorter lifespan than those in their natural habitat. For example, saving an animal that is following the path to extinction from being eaten is a relatively good reasoning for placing it in captivity. I believe that is achieved more so by how the parents raise the children and what experiences overall they provide for them. Nothing compares to seeing sharks in person. The most crucial difference is that the Megalodon went extinct millions of years ago, and the whale shark is still around today. According to a recent study, living in captivity can cause severe neurosis in some animals, which can lead to depression. What if it was a dolphin? You dont want to eat, Read More How Long Does Cooked Fish Last in the Fridge and Freezer?Continue. Healthy adult . Theyre not commonly held, and Id imagine that theyre very few and far between. No, the Georgia Aquarium does not abuse animals. If action is not taken soon, we may only ever watch these majestic animals through a glass barrier. This is the reason given for the excuse to take animals out of the wild and place them behing bars. There will never be completely perfect conditions in the wild or in captivity. Despite their size, these creatures do not pose a threat to humans because they are not known to attack humans and are more likely to flee if approached. NO! 1250 24th Street, N.W. They are fish. Avoid the biggest mistake new betta owners make: they dont understand their diet needs. How Long Does Cooked Fish Last in the Fridge and Freezer? [69], The shark is seen by divers in many places, including the Bay Islands in Honduras, Thailand, Indonesia (Bone Bolango, Cendrawasih Bay), the Philippines, the Maldives close to Maamigili (South Ari Atoll), the Red Sea, Western Australia (Ningaloo Reef, Christmas Island), Taiwan, Panama (Coiba Island), Belize, Tofo Beach in Mozambique, Sodwana Bay (Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park) in South Africa,[69] the Galapagos Islands, Saint Helena, Isla Mujeres (Caribbean Sea), La Paz, Baja California Sur and Baha de los ngeles in Mexico, the Seychelles, West Malaysia, islands off eastern peninsular Malaysia, India, Sri Lanka, Oman, Fujairah, Puerto Rico, and other parts of the Caribbean. The sharks are now alive, healthy, and being used to educate the public about sharks. Correlation isnt causation, and if the only evidence is that those sharks received the treatment and one died of peritonitis, they probably need to revise their theory. The way the Georgia Aquarium does the program seems safe. The Doctor did not explain in depth to what really happened to the sharks. In this article, we will look at the arguments both for and against keeping whale sharks in aquariums, exploring the ethical and practical implications of such a decision. Donsol Bay, Philippines, attracts huge numbers of whale sharks because of the high levels of plankton found in its water. It raises both resources and public awareness necessary for research and conservation efforts. While I cant say that I am completely satisfied with the deaths of Ralph and Norton because Dr. Carlson did not really give a complete description of the treatment that they were doing in the aquarium where Ralph and Norton were kept. It sounds like the Georgia aquarium fits those criteria, so Im a-okay with them. Whale sharks are the largest shark . [70], There is currently no robust estimate of the global whale shark population. These denticles serve to protect the eye from damage, along with the whale shark's ability to retract its eye deep into its socket. I for one prefer to see any animal in the wild, and for whale sharks this is no exception, especially after having the pleasure to swim with them. As far as the whale sharks go, I think this particular aquarium was put in a sticky situation. The demand for these sharks was there before there was an aquarium. Do they presently have one? Diet The white shark is one of the ocean's most famous predators. What exactly is the source of your outrage here? Their white spotted colouration makes these gentle giants easy to distinguish, and popular with snorkelers and divers at sites where they aggregate off the coast. I wonder, however, if aquariums consider keeping a whale shark for only a year or so, and replacing it back into the wild to live a normal life?

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