It began like any other day near the ocean — until something long and silvery washed up on the shore. With its ribbon-like form and bright red crest, it appeared more mythical than fish. To some, it was as if a warning.
This week, oarfish — or "doomsday fish" to many — have appeared along the coast of Tasmania and off Tamil Nadu in India. The deep-sea fish, seldom seen at the surface, have been associated with natural disasters in folklore for centuries, although scientists claim that no such link has been established.
A Strange Arrival in Tasmania
The first of these unusual fish washed up on Tasmania's west coast on Monday. Residents were shocked to find such a long, snake-like fish on the beach. Its alien appearance attracted notice and speculation.
Oarfish have a dramatic appearance — wavy silver bodies up to 30 feet long and a red fin along the head. Oftentimes turning up in shallow water, their mysterious appearances always cause alarm.
Tamil Nadu's Deep-Sea Catch Prompts Raised Eyebrows
In quick succession, Tamil Nadu fishermen then caught another of the deep-sea creatures. The giant fish was impressive with its huge size, metallic scales, and red crest. Large numbers of locals came to get a glimpse, exchanging hushed tales of omens and natural portents.
Scientifically referred to as Regalecus glesne, the oarfish typically exists 200 to 1,000 metres below the sea. It is seldom seen alive on the surface. That scarcity, coupled with its odd appearance, contributes to myths and phobias.
Residents of the area remembered previous oarfish sightings prior to large earthquakes. Perhaps most widely discussed was the 2011 incident, prior to the enormous earthquake and tsunami in Japan. Such accounts have also been brought forward from Mexico, where oarfish were reported prior to strong quakes.
Science Meets Superstition
In Japanese folklore, oarfish have been reported to show themselves prior to earthquakes, surfacing when shaken by seismic tremors beneath the sea. For this reason, most still believe that they are portents of some evil to befall.
Marine biologists, nevertheless, have discovered no concrete evidence to justify that supposition. They indicate oarfish could be driven near shore by alterations in water conditions, disease, or trauma. A 2019 survey could not find any correlation between oarfish sightings and seismic events.
Even with science disproving the theory, they still intrigue and unnerve. Each time one runs ashore, it evokes a combination of curiosity, awe, and a silent sense of alarm.
Whether it be simply a strayed fish or a portent of something else, the enigma of the deep is as intriguing as ever.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
