Sharptail Mola

The sharptail mola, scientifically known as Masturus lanceolatus, is a fascinating and rare species of sunfish found in warm oceanic waters worldwide. With its oval silhouette reaching lengths of up to 3.4 meters (11 feet) and weighing as much as 2,000 kilograms (4,400 pounds), this impressive fish is one of the largest bony fish known to science. Distinguished by a unique pseudo-tail called a clavus, this structure is an adaptation following the loss of a traditional tail fin. The sharptail mola's skin is covered with fine, small denticles, giving it a rough texture, and it exhibits a silvery color with the upper sides appearing grayish brown to blackish, occasionally marked with faint spots.

Inhabiting depths from as shallow as 5 meters (16 feet) to as deep as 670 meters (2,200 feet), the sharptail mola frequents tropical and temperate waters, although it remains elusive. At night, it typically resides between 100 and 250 meters (330 and 820 feet). During the day, these fish prefer warmer waters but occasionally dive into cooler layers, possibly to feed or evade predators. Their unique swimming technique involves rhythmic movements of their long dorsal and anal fins, with the small pectoral fins aiding in balance and direction.

The sharptail mola feeds on a varied diet. While juveniles consume benthic organisms like annelids and sponges, adults likely feast on jellyfish, siphonophores, and other gelatinous sea creatures, along with some fish, crustaceans, and molluscs. Interestingly, the mola is oviparous, laying numerous eggs, with larval stages developing a characteristic spherical shape adorned with spines that eventually vanish as they mature.

Cultural interest in the sharptail mola has risen, particularly in 🇹🇼 Taiwan, where it has become a significant part of local fisheries due to a festival celebrating sunfish. This event has spurred demand for mola meat and led to increased fishing activities. While these fish were previously little utilized, now nearly full catches are processed, drawing significant economic value to the region. However, the impact of this fishing on the mola population remains under investigation. Notable sightings and encounters, such as a significant specimen found in North Carolina in 2022, continue to intrigue scientists and ocean enthusiasts alike, inciting efforts to learn more about this enigmatic marine giant.