common mola
Quick Summary
The common mola, also known as the ocean sunfish, is a type of oceanic fish belonging to the family Molidae. These fish are characterized by their distinctive bullet-shaped bodies, which end abruptly behind tall, triangular dorsal and anal fins. This unique shape is due to the development of a rudder-like structure called a clavus, formed as the fish grows.1
Molas are the largest of the bony fishes, with the species Mola mola reaching lengths of about 3.3 meters (10.9 feet) and weights up to 1,900 kg (4,000 pounds). They are found in temperate and tropical waters worldwide, typically in the open sea near the surface. The name "mola" comes from the Latin word for millstone, referencing their shape and rough skin.12
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bony fish…and the ocean sunfish (Mola mola), which may weigh over 900 kg (1 ton).
Read More…and the ocean sunfish (Mola mola), which may weigh over 900 kg (1 ton).
Read More
teleostAnother large fish, the mola, or ocean sunfish (Mola mola), reaches at least 3 metres (10 feet) and may weigh more than 900 kg (2,000 pounds).
Read MoreAnother large fish, the mola, or ocean sunfish (Mola mola), reaches at least 3 metres (10 feet) and may weigh more than 900 kg (2,000 pounds).
Read More
