In the realm of marine creatures, the ocean sunfish stands out as a heavyweight, tipping the scales at up to two tonnes and adorned with parasites, even on its eyeballs. In an episode of The Nature of Things 101, host Sarika Cullis-Suzuki explores the peculiarities of what could be deemed the most unconventional fish in the world.
Cullis-Suzuki marvels at the distinct features of the Mola mola, showcasing its circular body, lack of a tail, and enormous fins using a life-sized model for her co-host Anthony Morgan. Despite being one of the largest fish in the ocean, the Mola mola remains largely underestimated.
Known for their extensive travels, these fish plunge hundreds of meters deep multiple times a day in search of sustenance. However, their sluggish pace, expansive body surface, and movement through various water layers make them a magnet for parasites, according to Cullis-Suzuki.
A staggering 73 parasite species have been identified on the Mola mola and other ocean sunfish types, some of which host parasites of their own. To combat this infestation, sunfish resort to breaching, leaping out of the water and crashing back down, possibly to dislodge parasites. They also permit smaller fish and birds to feed on the parasites.
Despite the wealth of knowledge accumulated about the ocean sunfish, it remains a species ripe for further exploration. Cullis-Suzuki emphasizes the need for continued research to unravel more mysteries surrounding these fascinating creatures.
For a deeper dive into the world of the ocean sunfish, viewers can catch The Nature of Things 101 on CBC Gem or The Nature of Things YouTube channel.