Fishermen catch giant sunfish – researchers are thrilled

Spanish fishermen have caught a huge sunfish in the Mediterranean Sea. As the marine biologists called in, the animal measured 3.2 meters. The exact weight could not be determined because the scales on board were only designed for 1000 kilograms. The researchers estimate, however, that the animal could weigh around 2 tons. O-TON ENRIQUE OSTALE, MARINE BIOLOGIST: “When we arrived we were amazed. We could hardly believe our luck, because until now we only knew from books and specialist articles how big a sunfish can get. But we didn’t expect to ever get one ourselves to be able to observe and touch. ” The scientists took DNA samples, then put the fish back in the water. Sunfish live at depths of up to 500 meters. They feed on jellyfish, plankton and small fish. Because they are considered endangered, consumption is prohibited in Europe. In Asia, however, they end up on the plate.