An unusual sighting of an oarfish on Balandra Beach, Baja California Sur, has captured the attention of thousands of social media users.
This species has been nicknamed the “end-of-the-world fish” due to its supposed appearance before catastrophic events, such as earthquakes and tsunamis.
A notable example of this belief occurred in Japan in 2011, when several specimens were spotted shortly before the devastating Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, which also affected the Fukushima nuclear plant.
The sighting was documented by TikTok user @atlenxa_1, who shared a video showing the fish swimming on the surface of the water.
In the video, the author interacts with the animal, expressing amazement and admiration. “Hey, guys! An oarfish here… let’s film it… it’s an oarfish here in Balandra. Look how beautiful, how pretty,” he commented while capturing the video.
Furthermore, the user avoided any physical contact with the fish, saying goodbye with words of gratitude: “It’s here with me. I’m nervous… hello, beautiful. Look how big it is.”
“Look how beautiful it is, gentlemen, how beautiful. I don’t know your destiny, but go deep,” concludes the TikTok user.
This specimen, scientifically known as Regalecus glesne, is recognized as the longest bony fish in the world and has been the subject of myths and legends for centuries.
The oarfish is easily recognizable by its elongated, silvery body, a characteristic due to guanine, a chemical compound that coats its skin.
Unlike most fish, it has no scales, and its small mouth, lacking visible teeth, further distinguishes it from other marine species.
Its swimming style is also peculiar, as it moves vertically, which, combined with its silvery hue, allows it to camouflage itself by reflecting light in the water.
This behavior, along with its elongated silhouette, is what has earned it its name, as its shape resembles an oar.
Throughout history, the oarfish has been surrounded by superstitions and stories linking it to natural disasters.
The presence of this fish in shallow waters is usually an exceptional phenomenon. Ocean Conservancy details that factors such as changes in ocean currents, variations in water temperature, or health problems can influence its appearance in shallower areas.
These adverse conditions could explain why a specimen of this species, which normally lives at depths of up to 1,000 meters (3,280 feet), was seen so close to the coast in Balandra.
Although it has not been proven with scientific evidence whether these fish are really linked to natural disasters, it is a belief that continues to be replicated among people.
Source: milenio
