An unusual phenomenon occurred last Sunday when fishermen discovered a sunfish, also known as a ‘mola’, on the coast of Saint-Augustin, south of Toliara. The fish was found near the shore but was already dead.
“The fishermen brought it back to the beach, but the sunfish was lifeless. Residents were advised to bury the fish to prevent consumption, as a specimen of this size that is already dead poses significant risks of food poisoning and environmental hazards,” explained Rovestin Tovondrainy, Regional Director of Fisheries and the Blue Economy for the Atsimo-Andrefana region.
The discovered sunfish measured between two and three meters and can weigh up to a ton. This species is primarily found in tropical and temperate waters, but sightings at the surface are rare. It feeds on jellyfish, and consuming it is risky as toxins often accumulate in its flesh. Sunfish frequently wash ashore due to ocean currents.
Captured & Published at: 2026-09-23 05:38:44 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/09/saint-augustin-un-poisson-lune-meurt.html