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Created 6/17/2020

Family Molidae

CIRCUMTROPICAL

Masturus lanceolatus

   


Juvenile, Lana'i

SHARPTAIL SUNFISH

Adults are rare in the open ocean where they feed upon large zooplankton including jellies. Juveniles are spiny with a long filament extending from the odd protruding tail.  The spines and filament disappear as the adult shape is assumed.  Juveniles are abundant and preyed upon by pelagic fishes.  Attains 11 feet and 2 tons.  Tropical and subtropical seas worldwide.