Tourism as an impact factor for behavioural changes in whale shark rhincodon typus smith, 1828 in South Ari Atoll, Maldives

Abstract

The South Ari Atoll attracts many tourists for snorkel and dive encounters with whale sharks. In general not much is known about the effects of tourism on whale shark behaviour and especially not for that area. The aim of this study is to provide a data basis, on which a concept for a more sustainable tourism could be developed to conserve this whale shark population as well as to ensure a stable income for the locals. This study evaluated if factors, caused by human activities, such as the number of people in the water, the number of boats nearby the whale shark and the shark-boat distance had a potential influence on whale shark behaviour. A behaviour score system, generalized linear mixed models and generalized linear models were used for the analysis. Whale sharks, who displayed avoidance behaviour, stayed significantly shorter. The encounter duration is a possible predictor for avoidance in whale sharks. Surprisingly, in contrast long encounter durations were documented when the number of people in the water increased. Also, the encounter duration increased when whale sharks were feeding, injured or when males were present. A decreasing shark-boat distance triggered avoidant responses in whale sharks. A higher shark-boat distance is needed to reduce boat collisions with whale sharks and avoidant responses of them. Compliance of the code of conduct and an effective management ensure the preservation of this resident whale shark population and real source of income for the local population.