The basking shark is the second largest fish after the whale shark, growing up to 12 m. With its cavernous open mouth, it filters plankton while swimming slowly near the surface.
Basking sharks are gentle filter-feeders, swimming with their mouths wide open. They often form small groups during feeding.
Where divers may encounter it Best seen in the UK and Ireland (spring to summer), Canada, and the Mediterranean.
Diving tips They are harmless but easily disturbed. Approach slowly and avoid swimming directly in front of their path.
The IUCN lists the basking shark as Endangered, mainly due to historic overfishing and slow recovery rates.
Did you know?
Despite their size and menacing mouth, basking sharks have tiny teeth and are completely harmless to humans.
