Top 10 Largest Fish In The World Not Shark

Top 10 Largest Fish in the World (Not Sharks)

The world’s oceans are home to a plethora of fascinating and awe-inspiring creatures, and among them are some of the largest fish species. While sharks often dominate the discussions about large oceanic creatures, there are several non-shark fish that deserve equal attention for their massive sizes. In this article, we will explore the top 10 largest fish in the world (excluding sharks) and learn more about these incredible creatures.

1. The Whale Shark (Rhincodon typus):
Topping the list is the magnificent whale shark, which holds the title for being the largest fish in the world. With an average length of 32 feet and weighing up to 20 tons, these gentle giants can be found in warm tropical waters across various oceans.

2. The Basking Shark (Cetorhinus maximus):
The basking shark, known for its enormous size and distinctive gaping mouth, is the second-largest fish on our list. These filter-feeding giants can reach lengths of up to 40 feet and have been found in both temperate and cool waters.

3. The Beluga Sturgeon (Huso huso):
The beluga sturgeon, native to the Caspian and Black Sea basins, holds the title for being the largest freshwater fish. These behemoths can weigh over 3,000 pounds and reach lengths of up to 25 feet. Unfortunately, the beluga sturgeon is critically endangered due to overfishing.

4. The Green Sawfish (Pristis zijsron):
With its saw-like rostrum filled with sharp teeth, the green sawfish stands out as one of the most unique and largest fish in the world. Growing up to 23 feet in length, this species can be found in coastal waters across the globe.

5. The Arapaima (Arapaima gigas):
Native to the Amazon Basin, the arapaima is one of the largest freshwater fish species. They can grow up to 10 feet long and weigh over 400 pounds, making them highly sought after by anglers.

6. The Giant Mekong Catfish (Pangasianodon gigas):
Found in the Mekong River Basin, the giant Mekong catfish is known for its exceptional size. It can reach lengths of up to 10 feet and weigh over 650 pounds, making it one of the largest freshwater fish in the world.

7. The Ocean Sunfish (Mola mola):
The bizarre-looking ocean sunfish, also known as the mola mola, is a unique creature with an average weight of 2,200 pounds and lengths of up to 10 feet. These fish can be found in both warm and temperate oceans.

8. The Redtail Catfish (Phractocephalus hemioliopterus):
The redtail catfish, native to the Amazon and Orinoco River basins, is known for its bright red tail and massive size. They can grow up to 5 feet in length, making them one of the largest catfish species in the world.

9. The Giant Grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus):
Growing up to 8 feet long and weighing over 1,000 pounds, the giant grouper is a formidable species found in coral reefs across the Indo-Pacific region. These fish have a unique ability to change their color and are prized game fish.

10. The Alligator Gar (Atractosteus spatula):
Last but not least is the alligator gar, a large freshwater fish native to North America. This species can reach lengths of up to 10 feet and weigh over 300 pounds. With its long, tooth-filled snout, it resembles an ancient alligator, hence its name.

FAQs:

1. Are all the largest fish in the world sharks?
No, while sharks are often associated with large oceanic creatures, there are several non-shark fish that are among the largest in the world.

2. Where can I find whale sharks?
Whale sharks are typically found in warm tropical waters across various oceans, including the Indian, Atlantic, and Pacific Ocean.

3. Are beluga sturgeons endangered?
Yes, the beluga sturgeon is critically endangered due to overfishing for their valuable caviar.

4. How do basking sharks feed?
Basking sharks are filter-feeders that primarily consume plankton and small fish by swimming with their mouths wide open, filtering the water as they move.

5. Are alligator gar dangerous to humans?
While alligator gar can be large and have sharp teeth, they are generally not considered dangerous to humans unless provoked.

6. What is the lifespan of a giant grouper?
The giant grouper can live up to 50 years in the wild, given favorable conditions and limited human impact on their habitat.

These top 10 largest fish species showcase the incredible diversity of life in our planet’s oceans and freshwater systems. Their immense size and unique characteristics continue to captivate and inspire awe in all those who encounter them.