Remora fish are found hitchhiking on sharks, turtles, whales, and other large marine animals. These small fish use a suction cup-like disc on their head to attach themselves to their host. In return for the free ride and meals they scavenge from their hosts, remoras are thought to perform cleaning services, removing parasites and dead skin. Even though these helpful hangers-on appear harmless, some researchers believe that they may also nibble on the fins or eyes of sick or injured hosts. Regardless of whether they provide a service or not, one thing is for sure—sharks do not eat remora fish.
There are several theories as to why this might be the case. One possibility is that the suction cup disc deters would-be predators. Another possibility is that the Remora’s mealtime habits—scavenging leftovers and eating scraps—are unappetizing to sharks. Sharks are also known to be picky eaters and may simply prefer other types of food over Remoras. Whatever the reason, it’s clear that sharks see these little hitchhikers as more trouble than they’re worth!