Predation of baitfishes associated with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef

A study challenges the long-held belief that whale sharks provide baitfish with protection from predators. Analyzing videos from Ningaloo Reef, researchers observed large schools of trevally rapidly consuming entire schools of baitfish associated with whale sharks within seconds, debunking the hypothesis that megafauna offer shelter to smaller species. The findings suggest that the association between whale sharks and baitfish may instead confer other advantages, such as reduced locomotion costs or enhanced feeding opportunities. This research highlights the need to reconsider the ecological benefits of megafaunal associations.

Barry, C., Gleiss, A. C., Ferreira, L. C., Thums, M., Davis, R. W., Fuiman, L. A., Roche, N. R., & Meekan, M. G. (2023). Predation of baitfishes associated with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef. Marine Biology, 170(11). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00227-023-04291-4