Have you ever noticed those small fish clinging to sharks? They’re called remoras, and they’re a lot stranger than you might think! Not to be confused with pilot fish, remoras have a specialized suction cup on the top of their heads that attaches them to larger marine animals like sharks (and sometimes even divers!). This relationship goes back millions of years and benefits both species. Remoras get protection, transportation, and access to food, while removing scraps and parasites, helping their hosts stay clean and healthy. Research suggests that sharks might actually recognize these benefits. They’ve been observed slowing down to give remoras a chance to attach—even at the risk of their own survival! As with life, there are always exceptions. Some sharks, like lemon sharks, don’t always enjoy the company of remoras, and have been seen acting aggressively towards these hitchhikers. Video by paulnicklen #OceanSchool #WhaleShark #Remora #Explore