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    Georgia Aquarium Mourns Loss of Beloved Whale Shark Taroko, Visitors Share Heartfelt Tributes

    Atlanta, Georgia - The Georgia Aquarium is mourning the loss of Taroko, one of its beloved whale sharks, who passed away on the morning of August 21, 2025. The news has deeply saddened visitors and marine enthusiasts, many of whom shared their personal connections to the "gentle giant" across social media platforms. A recent video, uploaded by TikTok user Kimmberrrrly, captured Taroko swimming in the aquarium's massive Ocean Voyager exhibit just a day before his passing. The video, which has since garnered millions of views and likes, shows the whale shark surrounded by numerous smaller fish. The author initially noted, "Visited the Georgia Aquarium yesterday and was amazed at how the fish never left his side." The poignant realization came later when the author learned of Taroko's death, adding a somber context to the observed behavior, with the caption updated to, "Realizing they were all swimming around him yesterday because Taroko passed away that morning. Rest in Peace Gentle Giant Taroko." Comments on the video reflect a widespread sense of loss. One user stated, "I’m literally broken it was a bucket list item to see Taroko I was even planning the trip to finally go for next month :(" Another shared, "He watched me and my sisters grow up." A marine biology student offered a scientific perspective on the fish behavior, explaining, "Marine bio major here! They do that to conserve energy. Whale sharks create a current when they swim, so fish will often hop on. It’s like the whale shark express!" This insight, while shedding light on natural behavior, did not diminish the emotional impact of the animal's passing for many. The Georgia Aquarium has not yet released specific details regarding the cause of Taroko's death, but the outpouring of grief highlights the significant role the whale shark played in educating and inspiring visitors for many years.

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    The Daily Dot
    2 days ago

    "And people say animals don’t have feelings": Georgia Aquarium visitor captures…

    "He watched me and my sisters grow up."

    Cover
    5 days ago
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    Atlanta
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