A rare deep-sea creature, often referred to as the “Doomsday” fish, has been discovered off the coast of California once more. Divers in San Diego’s La Jolla Cove recently came across the lifeless body of an enormous fish measuring over three and a half meters in length. This marks the twentieth recorded sighting of the mysterious fish in California since 1901.
What is the “Doomsday” Fish?
Scientifically known as the Regalecus glesne, this species is commonly called the oarfish, ribbonfish, or king of herrings. It holds the title of the world’s longest bony fish, typically growing between 8 to 10 feet, though some specimens have been documented at an astonishing 30 feet.
Russ Vetter, a marine biologist from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Southwest Fisheries Science Center, explains that the oarfish’s striking appearance likely contributed to ancient sea serpent legends. Throughout history, people have interpreted unfamiliar creatures as mystical or ominous beings. Even today, encountering an oarfish—whether caught or beached—is a rare and sensational event. The ribbon-like fish drifts through the ocean’s depths, often displaying a bioluminescent glow. However, when spotted at the surface, it is typically unwell, dying, or trapped by strong currents.
Legends and Superstitions
In Japanese folklore, the oarfish is known as ryugu no tsukai, meaning “messenger from the palace of the sea dragon god.” According to legend, these deep-sea dwellers appear before earthquakes as a warning sign. While scientists have found no concrete evidence to support this belief, it remains deeply ingrained in island cultures. Notably, in 2011, a significant number of oarfish washed ashore in Japan just months before the devastating earthquake and tsunami that led to the Fukushima nuclear disaster. Whether coincidence or a sign of something yet to be understood, the connection remains intriguing.
Scandinavian myths also mention the royal oarfish, with Viking fishermen referring to it as the “herring king.” According to their beliefs, this massive serpent-like fish guided schools of herring through the frigid waters. Fishermen treated the creature with reverence, as offending it was thought to drive away the fish and threaten entire communities with starvation.
Scientific Investigation
Understandably, scuba divers were startled when they encountered the beached oarfish in California. After reporting the find, the specimen was taken for an autopsy to determine the cause of death. While initial examinations provided some insights, further studies are required to fully understand what led to its demise.
As sightings of the elusive “Doomsday” fish continue, both scientists and folklore enthusiasts remain captivated by its mystery.
