Qatar’s coastal waters are home to one of the world’s most endangered species of giant whale sharks. Whale sharks’ presence is marked mainly in the Al Shaheen oil fields. According to the Qatari Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the fish arrive in flocks in the region from May to October. They reach the northern seas of the country.
This season is described as the mating season of whales. The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has warned visitors to beaches and the northern islands not to enter areas where whale sharks congregate. If whale sharks are found in the northern seas, the authorities should immediately call 184. Behavior that annoys them should not be allowed.
The ministry also reminded that the participation of the public is crucial to the success of the conservation of whale sharks in protecting Qatar’s environment and biodiversity. Researchers also identify the Qatar coast as the largest presence of this endangered species. Of the 600 whale sharks found in the Qatari Sea in 2020 in the Al Shaheen oil fields, more than 100 are in the Al Shaheen Sea.
They are 18 meters long and weigh up to 30 tons and are said to have a lifespan of up to 70 years. Female whale sharks are larger than males. Although large, they do not harm humans. In 2010 and 2011, Qatar conducted studies on the conservation of whale sharks and their behavior. The Ministry of Environment is also implementing special schemes to protect whale sharks. Researchers say that whale sharks flock here in search of food because it is an area where fish grow and breed.
English summary; Qatar prepares to welcome whale sharks
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