What is the largest mammal in the world?

The largest mammal in the world is indeed the blue whale. Blue whales can grow to be more than 100 feet in length and weigh as much as 200 tons or more, making them not only the largest mammal but also the largest animal known to have ever existed on Earth. Their massive size is a defining characteristic, and they are known for their long, streamlined bodies and distinct blue-gray coloration with lighter spots.

In contrast, while elephants are the largest land mammals and significant in size, they do not approach the weight or length of blue whales. The great white shark, although a large predator in the ocean, is actually a fish, not a mammal, and therefore does not qualify for this title. Giraffes, while notable for their height among land animals, are still much smaller than blue whales. This understanding of size and classification is critical when determining which creature holds the title of largest mammal.