Nov 07 2010
Ocean Sunfish in Norway
Sometimes we get rare visitors in Norwegian waters and a few days ago a small ocean sunfish (mola mola) was caught in a Norwegian fjord. The fish seen on the pictures in this post was caught in a purse seine while fishing for sprat.
With snow in the air it is not expected to catch species like this, and the fish had hardly any chance of surviving in the cold water this time of year. Warm sea water this summer can explain why this small ocean sunfish chose to migrate so far north. It is not a regular guest in Norwegian waters and very few individuals have been caught or observed in Norway.
The ocean sunfish may reach a length of more than 3 meters, but this young fish was only about 70 cm. long. Although it has a very special shape, it sure has beautiful colors. Photos: Dag Andre Gunvaldsen.
I’m located in America. The ocean sunfish is a terrific animal. I’ve spotted them a few times on Cape Cod, some in the canal where they are swept through by the current while feeding on jellyfish. The last one I saw, the past October, was forced to the rocks by the outflow of a tidal dike. On its side, I could see a crescent wound at its dorsal fin I think was caused by a shark. Amazing animals.
Very interesting catch! I don’t know that I have ever seen a fish that looks quite like that. Just goes to show that you can always find a surprise.
I have been fishing for years but i have never came across a fish that looked quite like that. I have actually never heard of a sunfish before. Its a mad looking fish.
I really love fish I am collecting fish pictures because they are really cute to see especially when they are having different colors but this is my first time to see a fish quiet like that I don’t know what to think of it..
that fish is either a long way from home or just hiding lol
Wow all sorts of crazy fish on this site… Love it!