Zhoushan fisherman releases giant ocean sunfish

A fisherman operating in the East China Sea near Zhoushan, Zhejiang province, recently captured a massive ocean sunfish weighing over 150 kilograms (approximately 330 pounds). The encounter occurred during routine fishing operations on October 24.

The crew initially mistook the large, flat, and circular creature for a floating boulder or reef. Because ocean sunfish are not considered a valuable commercial species due to their poor meat quality and lack of market demand, the crew decided to release the animal. After confirming the fish was stable and healthy, they returned it to the sea.

Ocean sunfish, also known as mambo fish, are known for their unique appearance and habit of floating on the surface to regulate body temperature. While they can reach weights of nearly 3 tons, specimens of this specific size being captured are considered rare.