Whalesucker

Remora australis

Whalesucker (Remora australis) is a species of remora in the family Echeneidae, known for its unique relationship with whales. Unlike most other members of its family, which often attach to a variety of marine hosts, the Whalesucker predominantly associates with whales, hence its common name. This article delves into the characteristics, habitat, behavior, and ecological significance of the Whalesucker.

Characteristics

The Whalesucker is distinguished by its flattened, elongated body and the distinctive adhesive disc on its head, which it uses to attach to larger marine animals. This disc, evolved from the dorsal fin, allows the Whalesucker to maintain a strong grip on the slippery skin of whales. The coloration of the Whalesucker varies from a dark grey to a blueish tone, camouflaging it against the skin of its hosts.

Habitat

Whalesuckers are found in tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide. They are pelagic, spending most of their lives in the open ocean. Their distribution closely mirrors that of their whale hosts, with sightings most common in areas frequented by large populations of whales, such as breeding or feeding grounds.

Behavior

The primary behavior that defines the Whalesucker is its commensal relationship with whales. By attaching to a whale, the Whalesucker gains mobility and access to food particles in the water, benefiting from the host's movements which stir up plankton and other small organisms. This relationship is generally considered commensal, as the Whalesucker gains significant benefits while the whale neither benefits nor is harmed significantly by the presence of the remora.

Whalesuckers use their adhesive discs to attach to the skin, fins, and occasionally the blowholes of whales. They can move around on their hosts, often positioning themselves in areas with optimal water flow to maximize their food intake.

Ecological Significance

The Whalesucker plays a unique role in the marine ecosystem. By hitchhiking on whales, they participate in a form of symbiosis that illustrates the complex interactions between marine species. Additionally, Whalesuckers help in removing parasites from their hosts' skin, although this is a secondary benefit and not the primary reason for their association with whales.

Conservation

As of the current understanding, Whalesuckers are not considered endangered or under significant threat. However, their reliance on whale populations means that any threats to whale conservation indirectly affect Whalesuckers. Conservation efforts aimed at protecting marine biodiversity and, specifically, whale populations, are crucial for the continued survival of Whalesuckers.