Hoodwinker ocean sunfish
📖 Overview
This species likely exhibits a similar biology to the other Mola species whereby feeding takes place during deep dives. Stomach contents of three specimens consisted of salps (Thetys vagina and Pyrosoma sp.) and the remains of a nectonic siphonophore, and in one instance, a 3 × 5 mm Styrofoam ball. All dissected specimens were heavily infested with parasites, particularly in the intestines (cestodes) and in the liver (likely larval Trypanorhynch cestodes). Gonadal shape differs between the sexes; the ovary is singular and ball-shaped, the testis are paired, elongated and rod-like and do not appear to frill during maturation. Migrations and spawning grounds, eggs, larvae and pre-juveniles are unknown .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Physical description for Hoodwinker ocean sunfish is currently being compiled.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Hoodwinker ocean sunfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Hoodwinker ocean sunfish is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Reproduction data for Hoodwinker ocean sunfish is currently being compiled.
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; pelagic-oceanic. Temperate southeast of Australia (New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania and Victoria), around New Zealand, off South Africa and Chilean waters) and with occasional, but presumably rare, occurrences in the Northern Hemisphere.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
👥 Community & Contribute
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