Fin's Fish Guide
The Hardfin marlinsucker (Remora osteochir) is a saltwater fish of the family Echeneidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The marlin sucker is a remora of the family Echeneidae from warm oceans worldwide. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a streamlined body with a flat, oval sucking disc on the head, formed from a modified first dorsal fin. With it it attaches to large hosts; it has a strong preference for marlins and sailfish and is sometimes even found in their gill cavity. It hitchhikes for transport and protection and eats hitchhiking parasites and scraps of the host's prey. The marlin sucker is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hardfin marlinsucker?
The Hardfin marlinsucker has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Sucker disc on the head formed from a modified dorsal fin; preferentially hitches rides with marlins and sailfishes.
Where does the Hardfin marlinsucker live?
The Hardfin marlinsucker lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Warm oceans worldwide; hitching a ride on marlins and sailfishes.
How big does the Hardfin marlinsucker get?
The Hardfin marlinsucker grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Hardfin marlinsucker dangerous to humans?
No, the Hardfin marlinsucker is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Hardfin marlinsucker edible?
The Hardfin marlinsucker is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Hardfin marlinsucker and live in the same waters.
Want the complete picture on the Hardfin marlinsucker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hardfin marlinsucker is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Remora
More from the family Echeneidae
Want the complete picture on the Hardfin marlinsucker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hardfin marlinsucker is one of 12,519 species in the app.