The legendary “doom fish,” the oarfish, has made a rare appearance in California, washing up on the shores of Encinitas for the second time this year. These elusive creatures, which can grow up to 20 feet long, are largely unstudied by scientists and are believed to be predictors of natural disasters or earthquakes. In 2011, the resurfacing of the “earthquake fish” legend coincided with the devastating tsunami in Japan after 20 oarfish washed ashore in the months leading up to the event.
Oarfish are incredibly rare, with only 21 documented cases of them washing up on California shores since 1901. Researchers have noted an uptick in sightings, possibly due to shifts in ocean conditions and an increase in oarfish populations. This year’s previous oarfish, measuring 12 feet long, was found in La Jolla Cove and studied further at the NOAA’s Fisheries Science Center in La Jolla.
Researchers are still unsure of the exact causes behind these rare appearances, but areas near underwater canyons like La Jolla are known hotspots for deep-sea fish to wash up disoriented or injured. Despite the mystery surrounding the oarfish and their supposed ability to predict disasters, a 2019 study in Japan found no scientific evidence linking oarfish to earthquakes. As scientists continue to study these rare appearances, the oarfish remains a source of curiosity and intrigue for many.
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