Abstract

The whale shark, Rhincodon typus, has a circumtropical distribution, excluding the Mediterranean Sea. Internationally, the whale shark is listed as ‘vulnerable’, however, little is known about this species in the Gulf of Mexico (GOM), and information on whale sharks in the northcentral GOM is especially lacking in the scientific literature. Based on reported sightings and encounters, peak occurrence of whale sharks in the northcentral GOM is June–October, however, the nature of their seasonal occurrence, as well as life history aspects, movement patterns, habitat requirements, and population structure, are virtually unknown for the northcentral GOM. Research needs can be addressed regionally through collaborative research using a combination of questionnaires, aerial surveys, satellite imagery and telemetry, and at-sea research. As a ‘first-step’ response to the need for comprehensive information, the authors provide an outline of suggested research and describe a recently developed whale shark sightings quetionnaire which is provided via the internet or hard copy. Future research will substantially advance under-standing of the biology, ecology and behavior of whale sharks in the northcentral GOM.

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