A French environmental organisation is advocating for the creation of an international protection zone for the whale shark in the South Atlantic – between Cape Verde and Saint Helena. The project has recently gained the support of the sailing community through the Vendée Globe Foundation.
The whale shark, the largest fish on Earth, can grow up to 20 metres long and weigh over 30 tonnes, yet despite its awe-inspiring size, the species is facing an escalating risk of extinction. Overfishing, accidental bycatch, and collisions with ships are some of the major threats contributing to its endangered status.
