Rare Deep-Sea ‘Doomsday Fish’ Emerges in Mexico—What Does It Mean?

A recent sighting of a rare deep-sea creature, commonly referred to as the “doomsday fish,” has caused a stir among locals and netizens alike. This elusive species, known scientifically as the oarfish, is often associated with folklore predicting natural disasters.

The Oarfish Encounter (Doomsday Fish)

On February 9, 2025, beachgoers at Playa El Quemado in Baja California Sur, Mexico, were astonished to find an oarfish swimming near the shore. Robert Hayes, who captured the event on video, described the fish as lifting its head above the water by about two inches. Despite attempts to guide it back to deeper waters, the oarfish repeatedly returned to the beach. Hayes noted, “We redirected it three times out to the water, but it came back each time.”

Cultural Significance and Folklore

In various cultures, particularly in Japan, the oarfish is dubbed the “Messenger of the Sea God” and is believed to be an omen of impending natural disasters, such as earthquakes. This belief stems from observations that oarfish, which typically inhabit deep ocean waters, occasionally surface or wash ashore before seismic events. For instance, prior to Japan’s devastating earthquake in 2011, multiple oarfish were found stranded on beaches.

Scientific Perspective

While folklore links oarfish appearances to natural disasters, scientists offer alternative explanations. The Ocean Conservancy notes that when oarfish are spotted near the surface, it often indicates that the creature is sick, dying, or disoriented. Environmental factors, such as changes in ocean conditions, may contribute to these unusual behaviors. However, there is no scientific evidence directly connecting oarfish sightings to impending earthquakes or other natural disasters.

Conclusion

The recent oarfish sighting in Mexico has reignited discussions blending cultural beliefs and scientific inquiry. While the appearance of this deep-sea dweller near shore is rare and intriguing, experts caution against jumping to conclusions about its connection to natural disasters. Ongoing research aims to better understand the behaviors and habitats of oarfish, shedding light on these mysterious “doomsday” fish.