In the last days, the sighting of three large oarfish in the waters of Tasmania and southern New Zealand has generated concern in the area. The presence of these marine specimens, which reaches eight meters in length and whose silver body with reddish fins is striking, has caught the attention of residents and scientists alike.
These giant fish are often a cause of superstition, especially in Oceania, where there are traditions that link them to natural disasters. However, the scientific community has taken it upon itself to clarify that there is no evidence linking its appearance to earthquakes or tsunamisThe latest apparitions, recorded specifically in Aramoana and Birdlings Flat In New Zealand, some specimens have been rescued, although in unfavorable conditions for study, since some bodies had been partially consumed by birds.
Why are oarfish linked to disasters?
Beliefs about the oar fish have their origin in japanese legends, where it is known as ryugu no tsukai and is credited with the role of messenger of earthquakes or tsunamis. Despite the persistence of these myths, experts like Andrew Stewart, conservative de peces of the Te Papa Tongarewa Museum, insist that such beliefs are unfounded. Stewart defines these animals as “magnificent and supernatural” creatures., underlining that There are no scientific reasons to associate its presence with future evils..
The fact that Only about twenty specimens have been registered on ocean coasts in recent times demonstrates how difficult its study is. Its usual habitat is the depths of the ocean, far from human reach and the coast.
The scientific view on the phenomenon
Numerous researchers have intervened to provide a logical explanation for these findings. Neville Barrett, from the Institute of Marine and Antarctic Studies at the University of Tasmania, rejects any link between the appearance de peces rowing and seismic phenomena, calling what happened “a random event, with no real evidence of a relationship.” Even if a major earthquake could affect some species, he maintains that The effects would coincide with the event and not prior to it.
Nick Ling, ecologist de peces from the University of Waikato, also focuses on how rare it is to encounter these animals because they "live in the open sea, at considerable depths." This characteristic makes them Information about their biology and behavior remains limited, which feeds the fascination and mystery surrounding these giant fish.
Science points to natural causes, such as ocean currents or disorientation., as the most likely explanation for the discovery of these specimens on the surface. The passage of storms, changes in water conditions or fortuitous events may explain the occasional arrival of these animals to the coast.
Rarity and study of oarfish in Oceania
The opportunity to find oarfish stranded on the coast It is extremely rare, hence the interest of institutions such as the Te Papa Museum in thoroughly analyzing these specimens. However, The intervention of carrion birds has made it difficult to collect samples in good condition., further limiting access to relevant information about the species.
This recent sighting of three copies de peces rowing in Oceania has revived old legends and generated some nervousness in the region. The scientific community maintains that They are infrequent natural events which, far from indicating future catastrophes, offer an opportunity to better understand one of the most enigmatic and least-known marine creatures on the planet.