Patterns in sightings of ocean sunfishes (Molidae) in the greater Dyer Island ecosystem, Western Cape, South Africa

This study aims to describe the distribution of ocean sunfishes (family Molidae) in the greater Dyer Island ecosystem off the southwest coast of South Africa. Between 2014 and 2022, local whale watching vessels operating under Dyer Island Cruises conducted 3 227 trips which resulted in 274 trips wit...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:African journal of marine science 2023-08, Vol.45 (3), p.181-188
Main Authors: Watson, RGA, Frey, E, Hörbst, S
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Carcharodon carcharias
Correlation
Cruises
distribution
Ecosystems
Ecotourism
Marine ecosystems
Marine fishes
Marine mammals
marine megafauna
Mola
Molidae
Sea surface
Sea surface temperature
Seasonal variations
seasonality
Surface temperature
Whale-watching
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Summary:This study aims to describe the distribution of ocean sunfishes (family Molidae) in the greater Dyer Island ecosystem off the southwest coast of South Africa. Between 2014 and 2022, local whale watching vessels operating under Dyer Island Cruises conducted 3 227 trips which resulted in 274 trips with Molidae sightings, with a total of 300 individuals sighted. Molidae sightings showed a significant correlation to sea surface temperature and a strong seasonal pattern. Sightings in the greater Dyer Island area increased significantly after 2016, suggesting a correlation with the decline of white shark Carcharodon carcharias sightings, with further increases in 2021. This suggests that the greater Dyer Island ecosystem has become a more favoured habitat for species of Molidae.
ISSN:1814-232X
1814-2338
DOI:10.2989/1814232X.2023.2245854