The ocean is home to some of the most mysterious creatures, but few are as enigmatic as the oarfish (Regalecus glesne). With its serpentine body, eerie appearance, and elusive nature, the oarfish has been linked to earthquakes and natural disasters, earning it the ominous nickname “doomsday fish.”
Many cultures, especially in Japan and the Philippines, believe that oarfish sightings foretell earthquakes and tsunamis. But is there any scientific evidence behind this belief, or is it simply a myth passed down through generations?
This article explores why oarfish are called doomsday fish, their scientific characteristics, their cultural significance, and whether they can truly predict disasters.
What Are Oarfish? The Deep-Sea Giants
Physical Characteristics of Oarfish
- Longest bony fish in the world – Can grow up to 36 feet (11 meters).
- Ribbon-like, silvery body – Resembles mythical sea serpents.
- Large, round eyes – Helps them see in the deep sea.
- Bright red dorsal fin – Runs along their entire body.
- No scales – Their bodies are covered with a slimy, soft skin layer.
Habitat and Distribution
- Oarfish live in the mesopelagic zone (660–3,280 feet deep), rarely surfacing.
- They are found in temperate and tropical oceans worldwide, including the Pacific, Atlantic, and Mediterranean.
- Since they live in deep waters, sightings are rare, adding to their mystique and mythical reputation.
Cultural Significance: Oarfish in Myths and Legends
Oarfish in Japanese Folklore
- In Japan, oarfish are called “Ryugu no tsukai” (Messenger from the Sea God’s Palace).
- According to traditional beliefs, when oarfish wash ashore, it is a sign of an impending earthquake or tsunami.
- This belief gained popularity after multiple oarfish were found before the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami.
Oarfish in the Philippines and Other Cultures
- In the Philippines, many believe that oarfish appearances warn of earthquakes and disasters.
- In Western cultures, sailors once mistook oarfish for sea serpents, fueling maritime legends.
- Ancient fishermen feared seeing an oarfish, as it was considered a bad omen for storms and shipwrecks.
Why Are Oarfish Called Doomsday Fish?
Origins of the “Doomsday Fish” Name
- The term “doomsday fish” comes from the belief that oarfish surface before earthquakes and tsunamis.
- Since they live in deep waters, people assume they sense seismic activity before humans can.
- This theory was reinforced by historical events where oarfish sightings coincided with disasters.
Historical Cases Linking Oarfish to Disasters
2011 Japan (Tōhoku Earthquake and Tsunami)
- Multiple oarfish were found washed ashore in Japan months before the 9.0-magnitude earthquake.
- This incident strengthened the myth that oarfish predict earthquakes.
2017 Philippines (Surigao Earthquake)
- Several oarfish appeared before a 6.7-magnitude earthquake hit Mindanao.
- Filipino fishermen feared disaster, reinforcing the “doomsday” legend.
2020 Mexico and California Sightings
- Oarfish sightings caused panic on social media, with people predicting an earthquake in the Pacific region.
- No major earthquake occurred, but the fear persisted.
Scientific Explanations: Can Oarfish Really Predict Earthquakes?
Research on Oarfish and Seismic Activity
- Some scientists suggest that deep-sea fish may sense small tremors before humans do.
- However, no scientific study has proven that oarfish can predict earthquakes.
- According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), there is no solid evidence linking oarfish sightings to seismic events.
Why Do Oarfish Wash Ashore?
Scientists believe that oarfish surface due to natural causes, not disasters. Possible reasons include:
1. Oceanic Disturbances
- Changes in water temperature, currents, and oxygen levels may force oarfish upward.
2. Illness or Injury
- Oarfish washing ashore often show signs of disease, weakness, or parasites.
3. Natural Death
- Some scientists believe that older oarfish naturally float to the surface when they die.
Recent Oarfish Sightings and Public Reaction
Media Hype and Social Media Panic
- When oarfish appear, news outlets report them as possible disaster warnings.
- Social media spreads fear, with people predicting earthquakes or tsunamis.
- Scientists and experts debunk the myth, but it continues to capture public imagination.
How Communities React to Oarfish Sightings
- In Japan and the Philippines, communities often brace for possible disasters.
- Some people pray or conduct rituals to prevent calamities.
- Others remain skeptical but still cautious when oarfish are spotted.
Conservation Status and Human Impact on Oarfish
Are Oarfish Endangered?
- Oarfish are not considered endangered, but they are rarely studied.
- Climate change, pollution, and deep-sea fishing may impact their habitat and survival.
Threats to Oarfish Populations
- Climate Change: Rising temperatures may affect their deep-sea habitat.
- Pollution: Plastic and chemical waste harm marine life, including oarfish.
- Bycatch: Oarfish sometimes get caught in deep-sea fishing nets accidentally.
What Can Be Done to Protect Oarfish?
- Research Programs – Scientists are working to track oarfish behavior.
- Public Education – Spreading awareness to stop fear-based myths.
- Deep-Sea Conservation – Protecting marine biodiversity for future generations.
Conclusion: Myth vs. Science
The oarfish remains one of the most mysterious deep-sea creatures, shrouded in both myth and science. While it has been linked to earthquakes and tsunamis, no scientific evidence proves it can predict disasters.
Instead of being a harbinger of doom, the oarfish is likely just an unfortunate victim of environmental changes. Understanding these magnificent creatures through science rather than superstition allows us to appreciate them for what they truly are: awe-inspiring wonders of the deep.
So, the next time an oarfish washes ashore, should we fear an earthquake or marvel at nature’s mysteries?