On August 10, 2024, a rare oarfish was found dead off the coast of La Jolla Shores, San Diego. The oarfish, known as the “doomsday fish” due to its association with natural disasters, measured 12 feet in length. This discovery is particularly unusual as oarfish generally reside in the deep ocean’s mesopelagic zone, far from human reach.

Oarfish sightings are sporadic, with only 20 recorded instances in California since 1901. These fish are recognizable by their long, ribbon-like bodies and silvery appearance, often growing to lengths exceeding 20 feet. Although oarfish have been linked to predicting earthquakes, no scientific correlation has been established.

Following its recovery, the oarfish was taken to the NOAA Southwest Fisheries Science Center for an autopsy to determine the cause of death. Scientists from NOAA and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography are leading the investigation. The findings could offer valuable insights into the life and habits of this elusive species, contributing to our understanding of deep-sea marine life.

The oarfish’s remains will eventually be displayed in the Scripps Marine Vertebrate Collection, one of the largest collections of deep-sea fish in the world. This event emphasizes the mystery and fascination surrounding the deep ocean and its inhabitants.