Just across the Bali Straits from the main island lie Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan and Nusa Penida, separated by deep channels where cold upwellings bring nutrients to a wide array of marine life. The molas come close to the reefs around these islands starting around late July and stay until October. Following the upwellings, which range between 17-21 C, the sunfish emerge and head to cleaning stations where small reef fish peck at their parasites.
Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan actually three sister island. Dry limstone island a bout 25 km off the south east coast of Bali. Reached by speed Boat in 50 minutes journey from Tanjung Benoa Nusa Dua.
This is another aspect of mola that makes them worthy of study: they are the host to a huge array of unusual and invasive parasites, with more than 40 different worms and other critters having been found on individuals. Thys says that almost any other fish or animals with as many kinds of parasites would quickly perish. Just how and why the mola lives and functions with all these hangers-on is not known, but discovering the answers may provide science with valuable insights on parasitic migration in other fish species.
High lights
The healthiest corals in Bali and home to huge variety of reef fish. Great for drift diving, and the best place to see Mola-Mola & Manta in season. Dramatic a bove-water scenery.
Condition
Usual temprature a round 28C but the strong currents and sharp termoclines can occosionally bring it down to the low 20C. Good visiblity, surface currents & surface swell.
Nusa Lembongan , with wild currents the order of the day. A flat terrace at about 25 meters and as you around the corner please be ready to hang on to any available outcrop. While you're waiting, watch out for the Mola mola which are abundant here in season. All the other big ones are often seen here too. Often great visibility, but it can be very cold.
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