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A rare oarfish, often called the “doomsday fish”, has been spotted in the shallow waters of Baja California Sur, Mexico. The deep-sea creature, known for its long, ribbon-like body and striking orange fins, has long been associated with myths predicting natural disasters.
According to Ocean Conservancy, an environmental nonprofit, the oarfish has historically been seen as a harbinger of destruction. Japanese folklore refers to it as “Ryugu no tsukai”, meaning “Messenger of the Sea God.” Notably, before Japan’s devastating 2011 earthquake, around 20 oarfish were found washed ashore, reinforcing the legend.
Viral Video Sparks Doomsday Fears
The recent sighting in Mexico gained attention after X user FearBuck shared a video, writing, “A deep-sea creature rarely seen by humans called the oarfish has washed ashore in Mexico!”
A deep-sea creature rarely seen by humans called the oarfish has washed ashore in Mexico!
Advertisement · Scroll to continueLegend has it that this mysterious “doomsday fish” only emerges from the ocean’s depths when disaster is near 👀
pic.twitter.com/NciJ7jbEbo— FearBuck (@FearedBuck) February 18, 2025
The post sparked an online debate, with users questioning the reasons behind its appearance. Some linked it to upcoming disasters, while others speculated about changes in deep-sea conditions.
One user wrote, “Multiple oarfish have been spotted recently. Does that mean doomsday × 3 is coming?” Another asked, “What is going on in the bottom of the ocean that has all these deep-sea fish suddenly surfacing?”
Scientists Dismiss Superstitions—What’s Really Happening?
Despite its ominous reputation, marine experts disagree that oarfish sightings always signal impending doom. Scientists suggest that factors like El Niño, La Niña, ocean temperature shifts, illness, or injury may be causing more oarfish to surface.
According to the Florida Museum of Natural History, oarfish can grow up to 36 feet long and usually inhabit depths of 656 feet (200 meters) to 3,280 feet (1,000 meters). Sightings are rare, as they normally surface only when they are sick, disoriented, or dying.
While myths persist, experts say the recent oarfish appearance in Mexico is more likely due to climate and oceanic changes than an impending catastrophe.
