Movement, distribution and marine reserve use by an endangered migratory giant

A groundbreaking study reveals that the Ningaloo Coast is a critical year-round habitat for whale sharks (Rhincodon typus), with satellite telemetry documenting their complete return migrations to the Ningaloo Marine Park. While existing Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) along Australia's west coast provide some protection, the research identifies vast unprotected areas of suitable habitat in the Timor Sea and international waters, suggesting current conservation efforts may be insufficient. The study utilized long-term tracking data and nonlinear models to predict whale shark movements, highlighting the importance of telemetry-based approaches for informing spatial management strategies for migratory species.

Reynolds, S. D., Norman, B. M., Beger, M., Franklin, C. E., & Dwyer, R. G. (2017). Movement, distribution and marine reserve use by an endangered migratory giant. Diversity and Distributions, 23(11), 1268–1279. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/ddi.12618