Beachgoers in Baja California Sur, Mexico, were surprised to see a rare live oarfish, known as a “doomsday fish,” swimming near the shore. Oarfish sightings are considered omens of impending disaster in Japanese folklore. Last year, there were three separate oarfish sightings in Southern California, with all fish found dead. The first sighting was in San Diego in August, followed by another in Huntington Beach in September, and one in Encinitas in November. Scientists are unsure why there have been an increase in dead oarfish sightings, but each specimen provides valuable information about the species. Some believe that shifts in climate patterns like El Niño and La Niña may be contributing to the strandings. The oarfish, also known as “ryugu no tsukai” in Japanese, are believed to be messengers from the sea god’s palace warning of earthquakes. While the presence of a live oarfish near the shore is rare and intriguing, scientists are still trying to understand the significance of these deep-sea creatures appearing in shallow waters.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
