A rare and mysterious oarfish was recently spotted struggling in shallow waters near Playa El Quemado beach in Baja California Sur, Mexico, on February 9. The deep-sea creature, rarely seen by humans, has sparked widespread curiosity and concern after a video of the encounter went viral, amassing over 21 million views. Many social media users speculated that the sighting could be an omen of an impending disaster, as oarfish are often associated with myths and superstitions.
The Myth of the ‘Doomsday Fish’
Throughout history, the oarfish has been surrounded by folklore, often believed to be a harbinger of calamity. In Japanese mythology, it is called “Ryugu no tsukai”, meaning “Messenger from the Sea God’s Palace”. Many cultures believe that oarfish surface before earthquakes or tsunamis, reinforcing the legend that these deep-sea creatures are a warning sign of an impending disaster.
Stories linking oarfish to catastrophes have been passed down for centuries. Fishermen and coastal residents have long viewed their rare appearances as an omen of doom, leading to their nickname: “Doomsday Fish.”
The Connection Between Oarfish and Earthquakes
The belief that oarfish can predict earthquakes became more popular after multiple sightings were reported before the devastating 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami in Japan. This led some scientists to speculate that oarfish may be sensitive to seismic activity, as they inhabit deep ocean waters near tectonic fault lines.
However, scientific research has not confirmed this theory. A 2019 study published in the Bulletin of the Seismological Society of America analyzed the correlation between oarfish strandings and earthquake activity but found no concrete evidence linking the two.
Despite this, each new sighting revives the debate about whether oarfish can truly sense shifts in the Earth’s crust before seismic events.
Why Do Oarfish Wash Ashore?
While myths suggest an apocalyptic warning, marine biologists provide alternative explanations for why oarfish occasionally appear near shores:
✅ Illness or Injury – Oarfish, like any marine species, can become sick or injured, making it difficult for them to stay in their natural deep-sea habitat.
✅ Ocean Currents and Storms – Sudden changes in ocean currents or strong storms can disorient deep-sea creatures and push them into shallow waters.
✅ Temperature and Pressure Changes – Variations in water temperature or pressure may force oarfish to move closer to the surface, where they become more visible.
Superstition vs. Science: What Should We Believe?
Despite widespread beliefs that oarfish sightings signal upcoming disasters, scientific studies have yet to confirm any direct link between their appearances and earthquakes.
Experts suggest that instead of relying on superstition, we should view these sightings as opportunities for marine research. Since oarfish live at depths of up to 3,300 feet (1,000 meters), their rare appearances provide valuable insights into the deep-sea ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
Whether an omen of disaster or simply a fascinating marine creature, the oarfish remains one of the most mysterious species in the ocean. The recent sighting in Mexico has reignited old legends, but science points to natural causes rather than supernatural warnings.
As researchers continue studying these elusive deep-sea giants, one thing is certain—every time an oarfish appears, it captures the imagination of people worldwide.
