Researchers have discovered how the fish-sucker remora migrates on the backs of whales

• The fish-sucker remora migrates on the backs of humpback whales during migration.
• Researchers have discovered how the fish react to the movements of the whales.
• It remains unclear how long the fish travel with the whales.

In Australia, researchers captured rare footage of the fish-sucker remora migrating on the backs of humpback whales. These fish, also known as remoras, are adapted to life in the open ocean, where they serve as transport during migrations.

Video, taken during the recent migration of whales from Antarctica to the warmer waters of Queensland, shows how remoras detach from their hosts at the moment when the whale surfaces from the water. They return to the whale with precision, comparable to Olympic gymnasts. These fish have a suction cup on their heads, allowing them to cling to the whales, traveling a significant distance.

Researcher Olaf Meinke, who observes the behavior of the whales, notes that the fish react to the rapid movements of the whales and know when to release themselves to be able to grab on again. Although remoras are considered harmless to whales, their presence can be detrimental to others, as the whales tend to lose them, stripping them from the water.

The question of how long remoras travel with the whales during their migration remains open. Researchers suggest that the fish may seek other larger hosts for travel when the whales are absent.

Tags: Research