Here's why:
* Protected Status: Whale sharks are listed as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to their slow reproduction rate and vulnerability to fishing activities. Many countries have laws prohibiting their hunting or harming.
* Lack of Economic Value: Whale shark meat is considered inedible and of little commercial value. Their fins are not used in traditional shark fin soup.
* Ecotourism Value: Whale sharks are a major attraction for tourism, bringing significant economic benefits to countries where they are found.
However, while not deliberately hunted, they face threats from:
* Bycatch: Whale sharks can become entangled in fishing gear unintentionally, leading to injuries or death.
* Habitat Degradation: Pollution, habitat loss, and climate change impact their ecosystems.
* Overfishing: Fishing pressure on their prey can lead to food shortages.
Therefore, conservation efforts are focused on protecting them from these threats rather than hunting.