In a remarkable display of interspecies cooperation, cormorants have been observed helping whale sharks by catching parasitic fish that attach themselves to the sharks’ backs.
This behavior, which has been documented in the waters off the coast of Mexico, is a fascinating example of how different species can work together to solve common problems.
Whale sharks are the largest fish in the world, growing up to 40 feet in length and weighing as much as 20 tons.
Despite their massive size, these gentle giants are vulnerable to attack from small parasitic fish that attach themselves to the sharks’ skin and feed on their blood and mucus. These parasites can cause serious health problems for the sharks, including infections and reduced mobility.
Enter the cormorants. These sleek, black birds are expert fishers, diving deep into the water to catch their prey.
They have also been observed perching on the backs of whale sharks, using their sharp beaks to pluck off the parasitic fish that cling to the sharks’ skin.
This behavior not only benefits the sharks by removing the parasites, but it also provides a source of food for the cormorants.
The relationship between cormorants and whale sharks is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a mutually beneficial one.
The cormorants get a meal, while the sharks get relief from their parasitic hitchhikers. It is also possible that the cormorants are attracted to the sharks because of the fish that gather around them, creating a feeding opportunity for the birds.
This behavior has been observed in several locations around the world, including the waters off the coast of Mexico, where it has become a popular tourist attraction.
Visitors can take boat tours to see the whale sharks and cormorants in action, providing an opportunity to witness this unique example of interspecies cooperation.
The cormorants’ role in helping the whale sharks highlights the importance of biodiversity and the interconnectedness of different species in the natural world.
It also serves as a reminder that even seemingly small actions can have a significant impact on the health and well-being of other species.
