In the world of marine creatures, the ocean sunfish stands out as a massive two-tonne giant covered in parasites, including its eyeballs. Host Sarika Cullis-Suzuki explores the peculiarities of the Mola mola, one of the largest fish in the sea, in a fascinating episode of The Nature of Things 101.
The ocean sunfish defies conventional fish characteristics with its circular body, lack of a tail, and enormous fins, making it an intriguing subject for study. Cullis-Suzuki showcases a life-size model to highlight the unique features that make the Mola mola an underrated marvel of the ocean.
Despite their impressive size and long-distance travels, these fish are plagued by parasites due to their slow movements, large surface area, and varied water column habitats. Over 73 parasite species have been identified on the Mola mola and other ocean sunfish varieties, with some parasites even hosting their own parasites.
To combat these parasites, sunfish employ tactics such as breaching out of the water and crashing back down, potentially to dislodge the unwanted guests. They also allow smaller fish and birds to feed on the parasites as a form of natural cleaning.
Although scientists have made significant discoveries about the ocean sunfish, there is still much more to uncover about this enigmatic species. Cullis-Suzuki emphasizes the need for further research to deepen our understanding of these fascinating creatures.
For those intrigued by the ocean sunfish’s peculiarities, The Nature of Things 101 can be viewed on CBC Gem or the The Nature of Things YouTube channel.