The name of the largest living animal on Earth is the blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus). These majestic marine mammals can grow up to 100 feet long or more and weigh as much as 200 tons, making them the largest animals known to have ever existed. Blue whales are filter feeders, primarily consuming small shrimp-like animals called krill. They inhabit oceans worldwide and are known for their loud vocalizations, which can be heard over vast distances underwater. Despite being enormous, blue whales face threats from ship strikes, entanglement, and habitat loss, making conservation efforts crucial for their survival.