Scientists capture rare video footage of a Mola mola 200 feet beneath the surface

Mola molas are observed sporadically off Southern California as they drift with the currents and prey largely on sea jellies.

Spotting one of these bizarre-looking creatures is usually considered a bonus for boaters who might be fishing or searching for whales and other marine mammals.

But late last week scientists aboard the EV Nautilus received a super-rare treat when a Mola mola appeared in the video feed of the vessel’s ROV – at a depth of 200 feet.

How do you totally derail an ROV exploration dive? Two words: Mola mola. Spotted at 200ft in @NOAA_CINMS. pic.twitter.com/qi54NEiwEx

— E/V Nautilus (@EVNautilus) July 14, 2017

The scientists, exploring within the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, were in awe of the sight of the alien-like denizen, which appears to have been attracted by the ROV’s lights.

“It’s staring right at us… wow!” one of the scientists says.

The EV Nautilus is conducting a yearlong exploration of the Eastern Pacific, from Canada to Mexico’s Revillagigedo Islands.

Mola molas are the planet’s heaviest bony fish. They can reach sizes of about 14 feet vertically and 10 feet horizontally, and can weigh as much as 5,000 pounds. Only sharks and rays, which are cartilaginous rather than bony, are heavier.

–Image is a video screen grab