What would happen to the remora fish if sharks get extinct..would they just die?

Remora fish rely on sharks and other large marine animals for survival, as they attach themselves to their hosts for transportation, protection, and access to food. Without sharks, remoras would face significant challenges:

1. Reduced Mobility: Remoras utilize the mobility of their host sharks to cover vast distances in the ocean. Without this advantage, remoras would have limited means to travel, affecting their ability to find food and avoid predators.

2. Diminished Access to Food: Remoras often feed on scraps of food left by their host sharks. Without this reliable food source, remoras would have increased difficulty locating sufficient food. They may face competition from other predators and scavengers for the limited available prey.

3. Loss of Protection: Remoras benefit from the protection offered by their host sharks, as predators tend to avoid larger, more formidable animals. As a small and relatively defenseless species, remoras would face greater risks of predation if sharks were to become extinct.

4. Disruption of Mating and Reproduction: Sharks play a significant role in the reproductive success of remoras. For instance, remoras lay their eggs on the external surface of their host's body, and the sharks play a crucial role in ensuring egg safety. Without sharks, remoras may face difficulties in finding suitable areas for egg-laying and ensuring the survival of their offspring.

Consequently, the extinction of sharks would undoubtedly have a profound negative impact on remora fish populations. It could lead to a decline in remora numbers, potential habitat shifts as they search for alternative hosts, and increased competition for food and protection. Remora fish may struggle to adapt to the drastic changes caused by the loss of their main hosts, leaving them vulnerable to population declines and potential extinctions.