Introducing the ECOCEAN Whale Shark Photo-identification Library
The ECOCEAN Whale Shark Photo-identification Library is a visual database of whale shark (Rhincodon typus) encounters and of individually catalogued whale sharks. The library is maintained and used by marine biologists to collect and analyse whale shark encounter data to learn more about these amazing creatures.
The Library uses photographs of the skin patterning behind the gills of each shark and any scars to distinguish between individual animals. Cutting-edge software supports rapid identification using pattern recognition and photo management tools.
You too can assist with whale shark research - by submitting photos and sighting information. The information you submit will be used in mark-recapture studies to help with the global conservation of this threatened species.
37000+ photos collected
16000+ sighting reports
3300+ whale sharks collaboratively tagged
3000+ data contributors
365 research days/year
3 supercomputers
1 big shark!
Growing Success
Video
Learn more about the work of ECOCEAN with National Geographic's CritterCam!
Click here for additional whale shark videos.Data Contributors
Many individuals and organizations actively contribute and manage data in the ECOCEAN Library. We will be featuring them here soon.
Contact us
ECOCEAN USA is always hoping for opportunities to better tell the story of whale sharks and the growing body of research and discoveries made possible by dedicated scientists, volunteers, and the general public.
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sharkGrid is: diving
Processors: 120 on demand
Is your computer unused part of the day? Click here to learn how to help our research!
In the Press
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The ECOCEAN Library was used in support of the BBC Oceans television series. |
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Tracking whale sharks and polar bears in National Geographic News. |
Find Record
Recent Encounters
In-kind Supporters
