The oarfish, scientifically known as *Regalecus glesne*, is a truly remarkable creature. This elongated fish, often referred to as the king of herrings or ribbonfish, is the world’s longest bony fish. While its average length is around 10 feet (3 meters), some individuals can reach a staggering 36 feet (11 meters), surpassing the height of a giraffe!
This striking, serpentine appearance has led many to believe the oarfish was the inspiration for ancient sea serpent tales. Its unusual form, coupled with its deep-sea dwelling, contributes to an aura of mystery.
Living in the mesopelagic zone, the area of the ocean between 650 and 3,300 feet (200 to 1,000 meters) below the surface, the oarfish inhabits a world devoid of sunlight. This explains why sightings are incredibly rare. These fish spend their days in the depths, rising to the surface at night to feed on krill, plankton, crustaceans, and squid.
While most oarfish remain in the depths, occasional appearances in shallow waters can be attributed to sickness, death, or strong currents. But it’s another aspect of the oarfish that truly fascinates: its connection to Japanese mythology.
In Japanese folklore, the oarfish is known as “ryugu no tsukai,” meaning “the messenger from the sea dragon god’s palace.” Legend holds that these fish rise from the depths to warn of impending earthquakes. This myth gained traction in 2011 when 20 oarfish washed ashore in Japan months before a devastating earthquake.
While the connection between oarfish sightings and earthquakes remains largely unproven, the 2011 event sparked widespread interest and led to further investigation. More recently, in 2024, snorkelers encountered an oarfish off the coast of California just two days before an earthquake struck the region.
However, scientists are quick to point out that this is likely a coincidence. While the appearance of oarfish may be unsettling for some, there is no scientific evidence to support a direct link between their sightings and earthquakes.
The oarfish remains an enigmatic creature, its life in the deep sea shrouded in mystery. Its unique appearance, coupled with its association with ancient myths, continues to fascinate us, leaving us to wonder what other secrets it holds within the depths of the ocean.
