Mythical “Doomsday” Fish Beached In California Again

So, what is known about the “doomsday” fish? This species is also known as the king of herrings, oarfish, or ribbonfish. It is the longest fish in the world, easily reaching 8-10 ft in length, but there are known cases of herring kings growing to be 30 ft long.

According to Russ Vetter, a marine biologist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Southwest Fisheries Science Center, the surprising nature of the oarfish gave rise to the initial idea of ​​sea serpents. In the past, everything unknown was perceived as mysterious and mystical. The sight of a randomly caught or beached oarfish is shocking and sensational even today when countless species of “monsters” of the deep have been discovered already. Just imagine what an impression this giant toothless fish must have made in the dark ages. The researchers also note that the ribbon-like belt fish floats in the ocean, creating a bioluminescent glow. In those rare cases when it can be seen on the surface of the ocean, it is usually sick, dying, or caught in a strong current.