Species Reference: 
Mola mola
EoL id: 
213810
EoL DataObjectVersion id: 
30868481
Subject: 
http://rs.tdwg.org/ontology/voc/SPMInfoItems#DiagnosticDescription
Section: 
Diagnostic Description
Description: 

The scaleless body is covered with extremely thick, elastic skin. The caudal fin is replaced by a rudder-like structure called 'clavus'. Dorsal and anal fins very high with short base; in swimming, these fins are flapped synchronously from side to side and can propel the fish at surprisingly good speed. Pectorals small and rounded, directed upward (Ref. 6885). Mouth very small; teeth fused to form a parrot-like beak. Gills 4, a slit behind the last; gill openings reduced to a small hole at the base of the pectoral fins. Gas bladder absent in adults.Description: Characterized further by deep and oval body, nearly circular, depth 1-1.5 in TL; rough texture of skin; clavus supported by about 12 fin rays, of which 8-9 bear ossicles (Ref. 90102).

Source: 
FishBase
Source URL: 
http://www.fishbase.org/summary/SpeciesSummary.php?id=1732
License: 
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/
Rights Holder: 
FishBase