Which whale shark feeding method requires maintaining a steady forward speed with the mouth open?
Answer
Ram filtration
Ram filtration is one of the two primary filter feeding variations employed by whale sharks. This method is characterized by the shark maintaining a constant, steady forward speed while keeping its massive mouth held wide open. This continuous motion acts as the driving force, actively funneling water, laden with prey, across the specialized gill rakers. Due to its reliance on continuous movement through a food patch, this technique is frequently described as a form of passive feeding. It is essential for sweeping large volumes of water efficiently when the shark encounters widespread but less concentrated food sources.
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