Ocean Sunfish

Ocean Sunfish

Mola mola

Vulnerable

Image generated by artificial intelligence

DESCRIPTION

The Ocean Sunfish is one of the heaviest known bony fish, notable for its round, flat body. It often basks on its side at the surface of the ocean and is a diurnal predator feeding primarily on jellyfish.

Max Length 330 cm
Max Weight 2300 kg
Lifespan Up to 10 years
Habitat Coastal zone and open water
Depth Range 30 - 480 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Diurnal
Social Behavior Solitary
Range

Where Ocean Sunfish has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Ocean Sunfish

Where can you see the Ocean Sunfish?

The Ocean Sunfish can be seen at 15 dive destinations in 8 countries. The best spots include Fuvahmulah (Maldives), Gordon Rocks (Ecuador), Nusa Penida (Indonesia), Punta Vicente Roca (Ecuador), and Revillagigedo Islands (Mexico).

What is the best time to see the Ocean Sunfish?

Sightings of the Ocean Sunfish peak at different times depending on the destination: Fuvahmulah from July to August, Gordon Rocks from June to September, Nusa Penida from July to September, and Cape Town from November to February.

Can you see the Ocean Sunfish all year round?

Yes. At Punta Vicente Roca, the Ocean Sunfish is seen all year round.

Where can you see the Ocean Sunfish in Ecuador?

In Ecuador, you can see the Ocean Sunfish at Gordon Rocks, Punta Vicente Roca, Galapagos Islands, and Kicker Rock.

Where can you see the Ocean Sunfish in Mexico?

In Mexico, you can see the Ocean Sunfish at Revillagigedo Islands, Socorro Islands, Baja California Sur, and Isla Mujeres.

Where can you see the Ocean Sunfish in Maldives?

In Maldives, you can see the Ocean Sunfish at Fuvahmulah.

How big does the Ocean Sunfish get?

The Ocean Sunfish can reach up to 330 cm in length and 2300 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Ocean Sunfish live in?

The Ocean Sunfish is found in these habitats: coastal zone and open water.

How deep does the Ocean Sunfish live?

The Ocean Sunfish lives between 30 and 480 m deep.

What does the Ocean Sunfish eat?

Feeds on other animals, from fish to crustaceans or molluscs depending on the species.

When is the Ocean Sunfish most active?

Active during daylight hours. Morning and midday dives are your best chance to see it moving and feeding.

Does the Ocean Sunfish live in groups?

No. The Ocean Sunfish is mostly solitary and is usually seen on its own.

How long does the Ocean Sunfish live?

The Ocean Sunfish lives up to 10 years.

What is the conservation status of the Ocean Sunfish?

The Ocean Sunfish is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Ocean Sunfish. Spotted something that looks off?

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