Rare Oarfish Sighted in San Diego: Tied to Japanese Folklore of Impending Earthquakes?

According to Japanese folklore, the appearance of the elusive oarfish is a harbinger of doom. Recently, one was found floating in Southern California waters, making it the 20th sighting in nearly 125 years. A team of divers discovered the deceased sea serpent at La Jolla Cove in San Diego, prompting a response from scientists and lifeguards. The oarfish, an omen of impending disaster according to Japanese belief, is incredibly rare, with only 20 washing up in California since 1901.

Folklore and Scientific Perspective

The Japanese folklore surrounding the oarfish suggests its presence in shallow waters foreshadows an earthquake. This belief dates back to 17th century Japan. The fish, known as “ryugu no tsukai,” were thought to be servants of the sea god Ryūjin, sent from the palace to warn of earthquakes. However, there is no scientific evidence supporting a connection between oarfish sightings and seismic events, according to ichthyologist Hiroyuki Motomura. He explains that these fish often rise to the surface when their physical condition is poor, which is why they are frequently found dead.

Understanding Oarfish Behavior

Oarfish typically inhabit deep-sea environments, dwelling at depths ranging from 700 to 3,280 feet below the surface. These majestic creatures are rarely observed in shallower waters. Their elusive behavior contributes to the mystery surrounding their sightings. The recent finding at La Jolla Cove adds to the small number of oarfish encounters reported globally, including locations such as California, Maine, New Jersey, Taiwan, and Japan.

Scientific Investigation and Preservation

Scientist are currently conducting a necropsy on the oarfish to determine the cause of its death. The unique specimen will be preserved for future study, becoming part of the Scripps’ Marine Vertebrate Collection, which is one of the largest collections of deep-sea fish worldwide. The opportunity to study such a rare creature provides valuable insights into the behavior and biology of the oarfish.

Reporting Encounters and Conservation

If individuals encounter a unique marine creature on California beaches, they are encouraged to alert lifeguards and contact the institution for further investigation, as taking the creatures home is prohibited. This emphasizes the importance of preserving and studying these rare marine specimens to enhance scientific knowledge and understanding of deep-sea ecosystems.

Final Thoughts

The discovery of a deceased oarfish in Southern California has sparked interest and curiosity about this elusive species. While folklore suggests a connection to impending disasters, scientific perspectives offer alternative explanations for their occasional appearances in shallow waters. The ongoing investigation and preservation of the oarfish provide opportunities for further research, allowing scientists to unravel the mysteries surrounding this remarkable deep-sea creature.