A large ocean sunfish just washed ashore about 1/4 mile south of the Sunset Beach approach. Measuring 6 1/2 feet in length, this monstrous fish can reach lengths of over 8 feet and weigh up to 5,000 pounds. They can be found throughout the world, sometimes traveling as far as 17 miles in a single day and are known for their extensive vertical movements. Their ability to tolerate a wide range of temperatures allows them to dive hundreds of meters, encountering temperature fluctuations from 44-70 degrees Fahrenheit in a single dive.
There are three different species of sunfish in the genus Mola: Mola mola, Mola tecta, and Mola alexandrini. All three can be found all over the globe and are widely distributed throughout the world’s oceans, except for the polar regions.
Photographs and videos by Tiffany Boothe/Seaside Aquarium
