Can ocean sunfish endanger a human in any way?

While ocean sunfish (Mola mola) are typically considered gentle and harmless towards humans, there are a few potential ways in which they could pose a risk:

Size and Strength: Ocean sunfish are among the largest bony fish in the world, reaching lengths of up to 14 feet (4.3 meters) and weighing over 5,000 pounds (2,268 kilograms). Their sheer size and powerful tail fin could potentially cause injury if a person were to come into contact with them in the water.

Spooking or Startling: Ocean sunfish are curious creatures and may approach divers or snorkelers out of curiosity. If a sunfish becomes startled or feels threatened, it could move or swim suddenly, potentially causing a collision with a person.

Gill Spines: Some species of ocean sunfish have small, sharp spines on their gill covers. While these spines are not venomous and generally pose no significant threat to humans, they could potentially cause discomfort or minor injury if a person comes into contact with them.

Rare Incidents: There have been extremely rare cases of sunfish hitting small boats or kayaks, causing damage or knocking the occupants into the water. However, these incidents are highly uncommon.

It's important to remember that ocean sunfish are generally not aggressive and do not actively seek out humans for interaction. However, observing these majestic creatures from a safe distance and avoiding any sudden movements or interactions is recommended.