As a PADI Course Director I am fortunate enough to dive and work in many areas frequented by whale sharks. Diving with such a wonderfully gentle, yet large, fish remains an incredible attraction and draws large numbers to dive sites known to have frequent whale shark encounters. That popularity has highlighted the plight of the whale shark, but also places increasing pressure on dwindling populations. As dive professionals we have the responsibility, and also the possibility to promote whale shark conservation. This article will review basic whale shark ecology and the importance of whale sharks to the Philippine and Koh Tao, Thailand dive industries.
