A preliminary study on the feasibility of whale shark (Rhincodon typus) ecotourism in Taiwan

• By questionnaires, whale shark ecotourism (WSE) is welcomed and affordable in Taiwan.
• The most appropriate season for WSE has been determined from March to June.
• PT and PH were potential hot-spots for WSE by seasonal set-net data.
• WSE development is technically feasible in PT and PH.

Whale shark, the largest fish in the world, has been concerned by many environmental groups and has been included on the CITES Appendix II list since 2002. Taiwan has taken a series management measures on whale shark since 2000 including catch quota and size limit and has banned fishing since 2008 for effective management and conservation of this species. Some countries that fished for whale sharks have developed their ecotourism as an alternative income earner. However, this alternative utilization has never been evaluated in Taiwan. Hence this study is to examine the feasibility of whale shark ecotourism in Taiwan. Based on averaged catch per unit effort (CPUE), Pingtung (PT) and Penghu (PH) were identified as the highest potential hot-spots for ecotourism development. March to June was identified to be the best season for this activity based on occurrence of whale sharks in Taiwan waters. PH and PT had the highest CPUE, adequately shallow sea depth, accessible transportation, lodging and dining facilities, and other established tourism activities adding to its suitability. Questionnaires for tourists visiting and set net operators in PT and PH demonstrated that the majority welcomed whale shark ecotourism. In order to successfully develop this highly lucrative activity, the participation and collaboration between stakeholders, government and non-governmental organizations should be achieved.