The ocean sunfish may not fit the typical image of a fish, weighing up to two tonnes and covered in parasites, including its eyes. In an episode of “The Nature of Things 101,” Sarika Cullis-Suzuki explores this peculiar creature, known as the Mola mola, one of the largest fish in the sea.
Cullis-Suzuki highlights the unique features of the Mola mola, such as its circular body, lack of a tail, and massive fins, which defy conventional fish appearances. These sunfish undertake extensive journeys, diving hundreds of meters deep multiple times daily in search of food. However, due to their slow movement, large surface area, and movement through various water zones, they become magnets for parasites.
With 73 different parasite species found on the Mola mola and other ocean sunfish varieties, these creatures have parasites in various body parts, including skin, gills, fins, eyeballs, mouth, and intestines. Some parasites even have their parasites. To combat this infestation, sunfish breach out of the water, possibly to dislodge parasites, and allow smaller fish and birds to feed on the parasites.
Despite existing knowledge about ocean sunfish, there is still much to discover about this species. Cullis-Suzuki emphasizes the need for further research on these fascinating creatures. Viewers can explore more about the ocean sunfish on “The Nature of Things 101” on CBC Gem or the official “The Nature of Things” YouTube channel.