What are remora fish?

Remora are long, slender fish that use a suction disc to attach to larger marine animals like sharks, turtles, and whales.

How do remora fish benefit from riding on humpback whales?

Remora gain advantages like free meals and easier breathing by hitching rides on whales, which act as the "ultimate free Uber around the sea."

What did the footage captured by Dr. Olaf Meynecke reveal about remora fish?

The footage showed remora fish using their suction discs to cling tightly to humpback whales, sensing changes in the whale's speed and water depth to maintain their grip during the whale's breaching.

Home / Science / Remora Fish Caught Hitching Thrilling Lifts on Humpback Whales

Remora Fish Caught Hitching Thrilling Lifts on Humpback Whales

6 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Rare footage captures remora fish riding on humpback whales
Remora use suction discs to attach to larger marine animals
Whales provide "free Uber" for remora, who get food and easier breathing

Remora Fish Caught Hitching Thrilling Lifts on Humpback Whales

On 2025-11-06T06:26:35+00:00, researchers released rare footage showcasing remora fish hitching rides on humpback whales off the coast of south-east Queensland. The footage, captured by marine scientist Dr. Olaf Meynecke from Griffith University, reveals the remora's remarkable ability to sense changes in the whale's speed and water depth, allowing them to maintain a tight grip during the whale's breaching.

Remora are long, slender fish that use a suction disc instead of a dorsal fin to attach to larger marine animals like sharks, turtles, and whales. This unique adaptation provides them several advantages, as they can essentially "cheat the system" by gaining free transportation and meals. Whale scientist Dr. Vanessa Pirotta notes that whales act as the "ultimate free Uber around the sea," not just for remora but also for barnacles.