Answer:
The blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus) is currently recognized as the largest animal in the world. It is a species of marine mammal belonging to the baleen whale suborder and can reach lengths of up to 100 feet (30 meters) and weigh as much as 200 tons. Blue whales are known for their massive size and impressive feeding behavior, primarily feeding on tiny shrimp-like animals called krill. Despite their enormous size, blue whales are filter feeders, and their diet consists almost entirely of these small organisms. Blue whales are found in various oceans around the world, and they are classified as endangered due to threats such as whaling, ship strikes, and habitat degradation.