Information Gap Analysis on Whale Shark
(Rhincodon typus)

 Location : isla Holbox, Mexico
Introduction 

            Although whale sharks aggregations can be located in every tropical sea of the world except in the Mediterranean, there are very few locations  where this vulnerable endangered species can be predictably found in large groups (IUCN, 2000). One of these locations is in the Mexican Caribbean continental shelf between the island of Holbox and the island of Contoy. In 2005 the Mexican government set aside 100,000 hectares (247,105 acres) of that part of the ocean as a protected area for the whale shark population due to an increase in awareness of environmental concern. 

            In recent years due to the docile nature of these animals eco-tourism has flourished in the area. However, the whale shark is considered vulnerable to extinction according to the World Conservation Union (IUCN) partly because of a lack of information pertaining their life history. Specifically there is no information for the seasonal distribution or relative seasonal abundance of this species, so during certain months whale shark aggregations are in different parts of the Caribbean or the Gulf of Mexico. Between May to August whale sharks are found in the Mexican Caribbean. 

            During this season close contact generated with these animals by eco-tourism interaction presents real risk of damage to the animals; mostly because of propeller damage and signs of marine boat paint being discovered on their bodies from impact. Eco-tourism without control could lead to a possible change of migratory route of the whale shark population. This would directly economically distress the tour operators and related businesses that currently benefit from this natural occurrence. 

            The Gap Analysis will develop an effective research plan addressing the issues or problems of the whale shark population. It will be based on the qualitative and quantitative information found through our literature review process.  It will consider the trans-boundary nature of whale shark migratory patterns, our governmental policy assessments and programs will focus on countries in Central and North America .  We will review important  economic forces involved within the whale shark eco-tourism industry. 

            Understanding the economic, environmental, and social benefits, along with the associated impacts on whale sharks is difficult.  These difficulties range from the lack of scientific information due to inadequate resources, differing multi-national environmental policies and cooperation, to the lack of educational outreach programs, and local community leaders creating appropriate sustainability policies. 

            The less obvious but more important obstacle to overcome is the lack of leadership among the involved agencies.  Some agencies have attempted to fill this void yet as of today none have succeeded.  In light of these issues MERC has started to compile an Information Gap Analysis  which is studying the state of current research, national environmental policies and economic obstacles facing the resource managers and scientific communities. 
             
Dr. German Mendez
Science Director, MERC
8/17/2009