What is the largest mammal in the world?

The blue whale is recognized as the largest mammal in the world, reaching lengths of up to 100 feet and weights of over 200 tons. This marine mammal is not only the largest mammal but also the largest animal known to have ever existed, surpassing even the largest dinosaurs. Their size is a result of their adaptations to a marine habitat, which allows them to grow larger than any land mammal. The immense size of blue whales enables them to store sufficient energy required for life in the ocean, where they feed predominantly on tiny shrimp-like animals called krill.

In contrast, while elephants are the largest land mammals, their size does not compare to that of the blue whale. Giraffes, known for their long necks, are also significantly smaller and stand at around 18 feet tall. The great white shark, although large and a dominant predator in the ocean, is not a mammal but a fish, thus disqualifying it from being included in the category of mammals. The distinction of being the largest mammal clearly belongs to the blue whale.