In Japanese mythology it is said to possess supernatural powers, and its mysterious appearance makes it the object of desire of marine biologists: the oarfish. Now for the second time this year, a specimen of the extremely rare sea creature has washed up on the American coast. A bad omen?
Iridescent scales, a gigantic, snake-like body and an almost bizarre-looking head shape – the oarfish is not just an appearance. They live in the cold and dark depths of the oceans, little is known about them.
Mystical inhabitants of the deep
That’s why the impressive sea creatures have always fueled people’s superstition whenever a specimen surfaces. For example, it was said that their appearance heralded natural disasters such as earthquakes.
The fact that the “doomsday fish” washed up on American shores, where no political stone remains unturned following Donald Trump’s election victory, is likely to cement their legendary status. The American media is already bursting with possible speculation, even if they are not entirely serious. However, after the first fish carcass appeared on the California coast near San Diego, a mild earthquake measuring 4.4 on the Richter scale followed.
Scientists examine fish carcasses
The second specimen was found last weekend on Encinitas Beach. Scientists from Scripps Institution of Oceanography, NOAA and the University of San Diego have already examined the first carcass.
Now the second “doomsday fish” is also being scrutinized. Perhaps scientists can gain a better understanding of the mystical fish’s life – and clear up some myths.
Source: Krone
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