Galapagos Whale Shark Project
The Galápagos Whale Shark Project (GWSP) is a long-term scientific research initiative dedicated to understanding and protecting the endangered whale shark in the waters of the Galápagos Marine Reserve and beyond.
This internationally recognized project uses innovative scientific methods — including photo-identification, satellite tagging, and in-water behavioral research — to study whale shark movements, migration patterns, and ecological roles in one of the most important aggregation areas in the world.
Whale sharks are classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, and their global populations have declined significantly. Their wide-ranging migrations mean that understanding where, how, and why they travel is key to protecting these gentle giants and the marine ecosystems they help sustain.
Mission
The mission of the Galápagos Whale Shark Project is to advance scientific knowledge and drive conservation action for whale sharks by:
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Tracking whale sharks through satellite tagging and long-term monitoring
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Building a global and local photo-ID database of individual sharks
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Investigating behavior, movement patterns, and ecological needs
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Identifying key habitats essential for feeding, migration, and reproduction
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Informing policy and Marine Protected Area planning that benefits whale sharks and other migratory marine species
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Raising awareness of threats such as fishing pressure, plastic pollution, and vessel strikes
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Encouraging responsible human interaction with these animals and their habitats
The project’s data has contributed to marine conservation decisions — including support for the creation of protected areas — and continues to influence global whale shark science and protection.
How Citizen Scientists & Divers Help
Galapagos Shark Diving’s Citizen Science Dive Expeditions include one shark scientist from the Galápagos Whale Shark Project on every trip, allowing divers to participate directly in research. Guests help with:
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Submitting photo-ID images for the growing shark database
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Participating in standardized observation counts (including SharkCount and other data collection protocols)
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Learning and contributing to ongoing research in real time
Through this collaboration, divers go beyond observation to become active contributors to science and conservation. This approach increases the volume and quality of whale shark data while strengthening the connection between responsible tourism and meaningful research.
Our Support
Since 2019, Galapagos Shark Diving has been a donation-based supporter of the Galápagos Whale Shark Project.
Thanks to divers and expedition participants, we have funded:
- Satellite tags and satellite tracking time for individual whale sharks
- Contributions to the international whale shark database Sharkbook.ai (www.sharkbook.ai) — used by scientists worldwide
- Field research logistics, including tagging equipment and research vessel support
- Ongoing data analysis that enhances understanding of whale shark ecology
By supporting and participating in this research, divers help deepen scientific knowledge and strengthen conservation efforts for whale sharks and their migratory corridors.
Learn More & Get Involved
To explore the project, support their mission, or learn how you can contribute as a citizen scientist outside of diving, visit:
🌐 Galápagos Whale Shark Project: www.galapagoswhaleshark.org
Follow and connect with the project on social media:
