(image credit: Wikimedia Commons)
The whale shark, at about 40 ft (12.5 meters) and 45K lbs (21 metric tons) is the largest fish on the planet. They are very vulnerable in the Gulf of Mexico oil spill. These gentle creatures are filter feeders or top skimmers, which means that they will ingest oil that rises, i.e. the oil fraction of crude with its density lighter than water, while they skim for plankton and the occasional small fish. In recent years there have been huge gatherings of whale sharks in the Gulf of Mexico. Reports in 2008 and 2009 confirmed very large numbers sighted.
I was lucky to see a whale shark in the wild in the late 1980's, while on a diving trip in the Caymans. They are gentle creatures of truly awe-inspiring beauty.
Dennis! Sorry it took so long to acknowledge your post. I'm in Seattle visiting my Dad (even atheists have parents!) and I was busy in the afternoon and evening.
ReplyDeleteI'm really wondering what is Godforsaken about my site? Was it the whale shark in particular or was it the article on the oil spill? BTW, while I'm delighted that you have made a bit of a new post, the latter half really needs to go because Boobquake was weeks ago. And I'm really wondering what it is about Boobquake that you had a problem with? Are you supporting the Iranian cleric;s theory about women and earthquakes?
So since everything I say will double back on me, BLISS OUT Dennis!!!
Hugs and kisses,
Marzie
Many years ago I was sea kayaking off South Carolina/Georgia coast (Port Royal Sound area) and a couple of Manta Rays came to investigate. Just like whale sharks, beautiful, gentle giants. I have always felt I was very fortunate to have seen them.
ReplyDeleteJen, I love manta rays, too. They are just so graceful....
ReplyDelete