Rare 12-foot Long Oarfish Discovered In California
On August 10, 2024, a remarkable discovery was made by a group of kayakers and snorkelers off the coast of San Diego, California. They came across a 12-foot-long oarfish, a rare deep-sea creature that is seldom seen in shallow waters. This event is significant because oarfish have only been reported washing ashore in California about 20 times since the early 1900s. The oarfish is known scientifically as Regalecus glesne and is recognized as the longest bony fish in the world.
The oarfish is characterized by its long, ribbon-like body, which can reach lengths of up to 50 feet in some cases. Typically, these fish inhabit the depths of the ocean, often found in the mesopelagic zone, where sunlight does not penetrate. Their appearance is striking, with a shimmering silver color and large eyes, complemented by a red mane-like crest along their back. This unique look has led to various myths and legends surrounding the fish, particularly in Japanese folklore, where it is often referred to as a harbinger of doom or a "doomsday fish."
The folklore suggests that the sighting of an oarfish may predict natural disasters, especially earthquakes. This belief has been reinforced by historical sightings of oarfish before significant seismic events. For instance, a 16-foot oarfish was found in Japan just days before a major earthquake in 2022. However, scientists caution against making direct correlations between these sightings and impending disasters. A study conducted in 2019 indicated no proven link between oarfish washing ashore and subsequent natural calamities, labeling such beliefs as "illusory correlations."
Upon discovering the lifeless oarfish, the group of snorkelers and kayakers promptly notified marine authorities. They worked with lifeguards and scientists from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography to bring the creature ashore for examination. The oarfish was transported using a paddleboard and later placed in the bed of a pickup truck for further study. Scientists planned to perform a necropsy to determine the cause of death and conduct genetic testing to enhance understanding of this mysterious species.
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Ben Frable, a fish expert at the Scripps Institution, expressed the rarity of such findings, noting that the oarfish has long captivated the interest of marine biologists. He remarked on the fish's beauty and its mythical associations, stating, "It definitely looks fanciful; it evokes the sea serpent mythology." The oarfish's presence in shallow waters is unusual, as they are typically found at depths of 700 to 3,280 feet. When they do surface, it is often due to health issues, making sightings even more rare.
The discovery of this oarfish comes at a time when the region experienced a 4.6 magnitude earthquake just two days later, raising eyebrows and reigniting discussions about the fish's ominous reputation. While many people were intrigued by the sighting, it was important to note that the earthquake did not result in significant damage or injuries.
The oarfish found in San Diego will likely be preserved and added to the Scripps Marine Vertebrate Collection, which houses around 2 million specimens, including various oarfish. This collection serves as a valuable resource for researchers seeking to learn more about these enigmatic creatures and their role in the ocean ecosystem.
In conclusion, the recent discovery of the 12-foot oarfish off the coast of San Diego has not only provided a unique opportunity for scientific study but has also stirred public fascination with the myths and legends surrounding this deep-sea fish. As researchers continue to explore the mysteries of the ocean, the oarfish remains a symbol of the unknown, bridging the gap between folklore and marine science.