Doomsday fish spotted in Tamil Nadu creates panic

In Japanese folklore, the oarfish is often referred to as the doomsday fish and it is believed to be a harbinger of impending natural disasters, particularly earthquakes and tsunamis.

This deep-sea creature is rarely seen near the ocean's surface, making any sighting an unusual and noteworthy event.

Recently, the appearance of an oarfish off the coast of Tamil Nadu sparked widespread concern among local residents.

The viral image of the oarfish, caught in a fishing net, was accompanied by a caption stating, “The rarely seen oarfish, which usually are in deep-sea, which is also known as ‘Doomsday’ fish, is caught in the net in Tamil Nadu.”

The oarfish has a long, silvery body with a striking reddish fin that runs along its length and a crest-like fin near its head. Often described as sluggish or lazy, the oarfish is typically found floating vertically in deep waters, feeding on plankton and small marine organisms.

According to Japanese beliefs, the oarfish swims to the surface when it senses seismic activity or disturbances in the earth’s crust, hence the ominous nickname.

In Japan, there have been instances where oarfish sightings preceded major earthquakes, reinforcing the legend. However, there is no scientific evidence to support a link between oarfish behavior and seismic events.

While the belief remains deeply rooted in cultural tradition, marine biologists explain that oarfish may surface due to illness, disorientation, or ocean currents.

Nevertheless, sightings like the one in Tamil Nadu continue to stir unease.