Mola mola is instantly recognizable by its enormous, flattened body and tall dorsal and anal fins. Instead of a conventional tail, it has a rounded structure called a clavus. It is found in tropical and temperate oceans around the world.
Despite its unusual shape, the ocean sunfish is an active swimmer and can travel considerable distances. It is often seen close to the surface and may stop at cleaning stations, where smaller fish remove parasites from its skin.
Seeing a mola underwater is usually an unforgettable encounter. Its size and unusual shape make it easy to spot, but give it plenty of room and let it decide how close to come. Around cleaning stations, avoid interrupting the animal’s behaviour.
Ocean sunfish are classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. They are affected by fishing activities, including accidental capture as bycatch. Because they are large, slow-growing animals, additional mortality can be significant for populations.