ISLAMABAD, Feb 8: The Whale Shark, which was found on February 6, 2012 in Gora Bari area in Pakistani territory of Arabian sea by local fishermen, will soon be displayed at Pakistan Museum of Natural History (PMNH).

PMNH was facing shortage of funds to display the  shark, which was undergoing preservation process. The stuffed body is scheduled to go on display soon as four-month tanning period is almost over.

Talking to this agency, PMNH Director Dr Mohammad Rafique said the administration was in search of funding as the display of the shark would cost around Rs 0.7 million.

The Whale Shark (Rhincodon typus) is the biggest fish in the world. It is a rare species and declared vulnerable as its population is decreasing at an alarming rate.

It was brought to Karachi fish harbour on February 7, 2012 and auctioned for Rs200,000. The person who purchased the fish managed an exhibition of this specimen and levied a ticket of Rs20.

Knowing the importance of the fish, Karachi Fish Harbour Authority and Marine Fisheries Department came into action and took the possession of this huge shark. — APP