Oarfish on the Beach: Omen of Disaster?

Recent years saw a record oarfish wash up on the beach, frightening residents into a frenzy that a catastrophic natural disaster was at hand. This deep-sea fish, or “Messenger of the Sea,” as it is now dubbed, normally lives thousands of feet beneath the sea’s surface. If it comes ashore, however, some believe that it is an omen for earthquakes or tsunamis.

Why are Oarfish Unusual?

Oarfish are not typical since they swim deep beneath the oceans, outside human vision. They are the longest bony fish in the entire world, measuring 56 feet (17 meters) in length! They are snake-like in form, metallic silver hue, with red fins, so they resemble sea monsters from legend.

Why Do Oarfish Swim to the Surface?

Scientists have some smart hypotheses why oarfish swim into shallow oceans:

• Disease or Death – They may be sick or dying.
• Water Temperature Fluctuations – Changes in water temperature may drive them to the surface.
• Seismic Activity Indications? – Others claim that they respond to seismic activity.

Oarfish and Earthquake Legend: Fact or Fiction?

Oarfish appearances are attributed by certain Japanese, Filipino, and other coastal people to be a sign or portent of earthquakes or tsunamis. This started because of previous occurrences when oarfish appeared prior to disastrous events.

Actual Oarfish Appearance Prior to Catastrophes

2011 Japan Earthquake & Tsunami – Certain oarfish were seen prior to the 9.0-magnitude tragedy.

2020 Mexico Earthquake – A giant oarfish was spotted before a 7.4-magnitude earthquake.
Scientists, however, believe that there is no solid proof to connect earthquakes with the sighting of oarfish. They believe that these are coincidences.

Oarfish Sighting in 2025: Do We Need to Panic?

Oarfish have been seen here and there this year, and this scared the people surrounding them. Recent sightings are as follows:

Japan (Feb 2025) – Oarfish was caught off the Okinawa coast by locals.
California, USA (Jan 2025) – Dead oarfish washed up on shore.
Philippines (Mar 2025) – A group of divers at a well-known tourist spot reported seeing an oarfish.

These have created web buzz and viral social network messages regarding possible natural disasters.

Oarfish Facts That You Need To Know

They are not toxic to human beings – Oarfish are not toxic to human beings and are completely harmless to them.
They are flesh-eating fish – They consume primarily plankton, jellyfish, and small fish.
They live for over 20 years – Oarfish have a long lifespan in the ocean.

Can We Save Oarfish?

Yes! Since they dwell deep beneath the sea, they are not overfished. Garbage in the ocean and global warming, however, can affect their survival.

What to Do if You See an Oarfish?

You might catch a glimpse of an oarfish if you happened to go to the beach. Then:

Take a photo or video – Photos and videos of the sighting enable scientists to study them.
Report to local authorities – Scientists can employ scientists to monitor the fish.
Remain calm – A sighting of an oarfish is not a sign of the world’s demise.
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