Hey Lykkers, have you ever heard of a fish that supposedly predicts disasters? Well, one just made a dramatic entrance on the shores of Baja California Sur, Mexico, and another washed up in the Canary Islandsaround the same time.

Known as the oarfish, or more ominously as the "Doomsday Fish,"this deep-sea creature has sparked a wave of speculation. Could it really be a sign of impending catastrophe, or is there a scientific explanation? Let’s dive in.

Meet the Oarfish – A True Deep-Sea Giant

Oarfish aren’t your average fish. With their long, ribbon-like bodiesthat can reach up to 11 meters (36 feet), they hold the title for the longest bony fish in the ocean. Their striking red dorsal finruns the length of their body, and their feather-like head appendagesmake them look like something straight out of mythology.

These mysterious creatures live at depths of 200 to 1,000 meters, far from human sight. They usually stay hidden in the dark, making their sudden appearance near shore both rare and deeply unsettlingfor many people.

But here’s the kicker—oarfish aren’t dangerousat all. They don’t have big teeth, they aren’t venomous, and they mostly feed on tiny marine creatures. Yet, they have a terrifying reputation in folklore.

A Sign of Disaster? The Japanese Legend

The nickname “Doomsday Fish”comes from Japanese folklore, where oarfish are believed to be messengers of the sea gods. According to legend, when they appear near shore, it’s a warning of earthquakes, tsunamis, or even world-ending events.

This belief gained global attention after the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunamiin Japan. Before the disaster struck, multiple oarfish washed up on beaches. Ever since, people have been on high alert whenever an oarfish makes an unexpected appearance.

Now, with two sightings in different parts of the worldwithin days, many are wondering: Is something big about to happen?

Science vs. Myth – Is There a Connection?

Despite the fear surrounding oarfish sightings, scientists don’t buy into the myth. Research suggests there is no proven linkbetween oarfish and earthquakes.

A 2019 study by the Seismological Society of Americaanalyzed 336 oarfish sightings and 221 earthquakesin Japan. They found that only onecase had a possible connection. In other words, the "Doomsday Fish" warning systemis likely just a coincidence.

Why Do Oarfish Wash Up?

If oarfish aren’t predicting disasters, why do they suddenly show up near shore? Scientists believe there are several possible explanations:

Sickness or Injury – A weak or dying oarfish might lose control of its swimmingand drift into shallow waters.

Disturbed Ocean Currents – Hurricanes, tsunamis, or earthquakes can shake up deep-sea environments, confusing marine creatures.

Low Oxygen Levels – Pollution or underwater volcanic activity can deplete oxygen, forcing deep-sea creatures to move to the surface.

Climate Change – Shifts in ocean temperaturemay push oarfish into unfamiliar waters.

Final Thoughts – Should We Be Worried?

While oarfish sightings always create a buzz, there’s no scientific evidencethat they predict disasters. Their appearance is more likely due to environmental changesrather than a supernatural warning.

But hey, the ocean is still full of mysteries! Whether you believe in the legend or trust science, one thing is certain—whenever the Doomsday Fishshows up, people pay attention.

What do you think, Lykkers? A sign of something big or just a deep-sea wanderer lost at sea?