How Mola mola Swim?
Author Information
Author(s): Watanabe Yuuki, Sato Katsufumi
Primary Institution: International Coastal Research Center, Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo
Hypothesis
Do the non-homologous dorsal and anal fins of ocean sunfish work as a pair of propulsors?
Conclusion
Ocean sunfish have functional dorsoventral symmetry in their fins, allowing for efficient lift-based swimming despite their unusual shape.
Supporting Evidence
- Ocean sunfish swam continuously with frequent vertical movements at speeds of 0.4–0.7 m s–1.
- The dorsal and anal fins had similar external and internal features, indicating functional symmetry.
- Ocean sunfish were found to be neutrally buoyant due to their subcutaneous gelatinous tissue.
Takeaway
Ocean sunfish can swim actively using their dorsal and anal fins, which work together like wings to help them move through the water.
Methodology
Accelerometers were attached to ocean sunfish to study their swimming performance and morphology was analyzed to identify adaptations for swimming.
Limitations
The sample size was small, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Three ocean sunfish with masses of 48 kg, 59 kg, and 153 kg were studied.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0005
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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