The oarfish, often referred to as the “Doomsday Fish”, has gained notoriety in several cultures, particularly in Japan, here are some things to know.
1
Oarfish live at extreme ocean depths up to 1,000 meters and rarely come to the surface.
2
In Japanese folklore, the oarfish is known as the Messenger from the Sea God's Palace.
3
Several reported sightings of oarfish have coincided with large seismic events.
4
Some theorize that oarfish, due to their deep-sea dwelling, might be sensitive to shifts in tectonic plates.
5
Whenever an oarfish is sighted, particularly in earthquake-prone regions like Japan or the Pacific Ring of Fire, the event is widely reported.
6
The oarfish's appearance contributes to its ominous reputation. Growing up to 11 meters (36 feet) long.
7
Biologists suggest that the appearance of oarfish near shorelines could be due to environmental stress.