sharksucker
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classification
Fish, Actinopterygii, Perciformes, Family Echeneidae, Genus Echeneis (Echeneis naucrates for Sharksucker)
habitat
Sharksuckers are typically found in warm, tropical and subtropical ocean waters. They often inhabit coastal areas, near the surface, and are known to attach themselves to larger marine animals, such as sharks, rays, and turtles.
body length
Sharksuckers can grow to a maximum length of about 1 meter (3.3 feet), although they are commonly found at sizes ranging from 0.5 to 0.8 meters (1.6 to 2.6 feet).
body weight
The average weight of a sharksucker is around 4 to 5 kg (8.8 to 11 lbs), but they can weigh up to 10 kg (22 lbs) in some cases.
lifespan
The lifespan of sharksuckers is not precisely known, but they are believed to live for about 5 to 10 years in the wild.
food habit
Sharksuckers are primarily opportunistic feeders. They feed on parasites and dead skin that they find on the bodies of larger fish, including sharks and rays. They may also consume plankton and small invertebrates.
habit
Sharksuckers are known for their unique habit of attaching themselves to larger marine animals using a specialized sucking disc on their heads. This behavior provides them with mobility and access to food while also offering a degree of protection from predators.
natural enemy
Natural predators of sharksuckers include larger fish such as tuna, billfish, and certain sharks. Birds of prey may also pose a threat when sharksuckers are at the surface.
bits of knowledge
Sharksuckers are fascinating for their symbiotic relationship with larger marine animals. They help keep their hosts clean by removing parasites and dead tissue, while the host provides the sharksucker with food and protection. Their ability to attach firmly to their hosts is due to a modified dorsal fin that forms a suction-like disc.