Where and how does a whale shark sleep?

Whale sharks typically sleep in the open ocean, often near the surface. They do not have a traditional sleep pattern like terrestrial animals; instead, they enter a restful state where their activity slows down, and they may hover in the water column. To breathe, they must swim slowly, as they are filter feeders and need to keep their mouths open to take in water. This unique method allows them to rest while still ensuring they receive oxygen.