Marlinsucker
NameMarlinsucker
Scientific NameEcheneis naucrates
Common NamesLive Sharksucker, Slender Sharksucker, Striped Remora, Suckerfish
FamilyEcheneidae
OriginTropical and subtropical waters worldwide, Atlantic Ocean, Pacific Ocean, Indian Ocean
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietcarnivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)300
Max Size (Inches)43
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesVery large, robust pelagic fish (e.g., large sharks, rays in public aquariums), Other very large, fast-moving fish that can tolerate or avoid attachment
Description
The Marlinsucker, also known as the Live Sharksucker, is a fascinating marine fish characterized by a modified dorsal fin forming a powerful suction cup on its head. This allows it to attach to larger marine animals like sharks, rays, and marlins, hitching rides and feeding on scraps from their meals or external parasites. They are pelagic fish found in tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide and require very large aquariums.
