Whale Shark Sighting in Malohom Bay

Posted February 27, 2008

Whale sharks, Rhincodon typus, the largest living fish was sighted 300 metres off Gayana Eco Resort on 26 February 2008 just before dusk at 5.45pm. At least three large fish, around 30 to 40 feet in length, were seen playing on the surface with their dorsal and caudal fin above the sea surface.

The captain for the Gayana ferry which happened to be passing through the area at that time switched off the engine and the fish came towards the ferry, often swimming by the side and under the ferry, giving all passengers on board a moment to cherish forever.

The fish were gigantic, living to their reputation and the view from the Whale shark at Gayana Eco Resortferry was simply spectacular. They were friendly and not known to harm humans as they are filter feeder, mainly feeding on phytoplankton and krill.

Whale sharks are known to swim through the West Coast of Sabah in this time of year, as it is also the season for krill and small squid. All sharks are targeted by fishermen as their fins can fetch high price in this region. Coupled with the fact that they are friendly, this fish is vulnerable and hopefully the authorities can ensure their safety.

This distinctively-marked shark is found in tropical and warm oceans and lives in the open sea.