Remora, << REHM uhr uh, >> is a fish with a sucker at the top of its head that it uses to attach itself to larger marine animals. Remoras live in warm to tropical seas. They measure about 7 inches (17 centimeters) to 31/2 feet (110 centimeters) long.
The remora’s sucker is a modified dorsal fin (back fin) that resembles the sole of a rubber boot. Slatlike structures on the sucker open and close to create powerful suction. Remoras attach themselves to a variety of animals, which are called the hosts. These animals include sharks, rays, and other large fish; sea turtles; and whales. Certain types of remoras are found almost exclusively on specific host animals. For example, a species of remora called the whalesucker attaches itself only to whales. A remora receives a “free ride” from its host and also may eat scraps of food left by this animal. In turn, the remora rids its host of external parasites. Some remoras attach to the hulls of ships or other floating objects.
