Wed Sep 25 08:43:37 UTC 2024: ## Giant Sunfish Washes Ashore on Oregon Beach, Stirring Local Interest
A 7-foot-long ocean sunfish, also known as a Mola mola, was recently found dead on the beach at Hug Point State Park in Arch Cape, Oregon. The Seaside Aquarium, which shared photos of the massive fish on Facebook, noted its unusual size and decay, stating that it had been “creating quite a stir.”
The sunfish, measuring 6.9 feet long, is considered average in size for its species, which can grow up to 10 feet long and weigh as much as 5,000 pounds. The aquarium explained that the fish likely died some time ago and feed heavily on jellyfish, which are plentiful this time of year.
This sighting follows the discovery of three sunfish washing ashore in Clatsop County since June, including a rare hoodwinker sunfish, which measured 7.3 feet long and was only recently described as a unique species. The aquarium explained that while sunfish are common off the Oregon Coast, recent reports are likely due to the increased awareness following the discovery of the hoodwinker sunfish, which was the first documented in Oregon.
Local residents have reported seeing the decaying fish on the beach, noting its strong odor and deteriorating condition. The Seaside Aquarium continues to collect information on these strandings, encouraging people to report any similar sightings.
First Piper 