Uploaded October 2023 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago

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This fin actually belongs to the mola mola, also known as an ocean sunfish, a large bony fish that looks nothing like a shark—except when one of its fins sticks out of the water!

John Chisholm, a shark expert and adjunct scientist in our Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, says that mola molas are a common culprit when it comes to misidentified shark sightings. But there are a few key differences, like shape and swim pattern, that help distinguish the species!

Head to our “News & Stories” page to learn more: bit.ly/3rTFubg

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