The rare oarfish was found washed up on the Canary Islands, but that did not stop social media become worried a natural disaster could be imminentOarfish washes up on Canary Islands beach
A mysterious oarfish, often linked to ancient omens of impending doom, has beached itself, unleashing a wave of superstition and fear across the internet.
This deep-sea creature, seldom seen by humans due to its preference for oceanic abysses, was found on February 10 by stunned beachgoers.
The discovery of this particular oarfish, with its shimmering body and striking orange fins, was documented in a video that has taken Instagram by storm, accruing a staggering nine million views.
The oarfish’s unexpected appearance on the Playa Quemada beach in the Canary Islands has sparked a social media frenzy – garnering more than 267,000 likes and 5,000 comments.
Don’t miss… Doomsday fish found on beach sparking fears of disaster [MEXICO]
In the footage, a man is seen cautiously approaching the stranded fish, dubbed ryūgū no tsukai or “Messenger of the Sea God” in Japanese folklore. This species has plenty of symbolism to it – and one particualr theory will leave you chilled to the bone.
Some believe the fish appearing on land is a terrible omen. One Instagram user commented: “Something bad is going to happen.”
Another theorised: “They show up before natural disasters.” A third wrote: “Usually, it means that an earthquake is coming when it appears to the surface of the water.”
A fourth remarked: “Put that back and run, may be a tsunami coming.” And a fourth warned: “PUT IT BACK.”
Don’t miss… Philippines on earthquake and tsunami alert after giant 14ft oarfish [ASIA]
SUBSCRIBE Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
The myth unpacked
The ryūgū no tsukai oarfish holds a unique position in Japanese folklore. As per the Ocean Research and Conservation Association of Ireland (ORCA), the myth suggests that these oarfish dwell beneath Japan’s islands, surfacing as harbingers of impending earthquakes.
This legend gained traction following the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster. ORCA Ireland noted: “Before the earthquake in late 2009 and 2010, at least 20 specimens of oarfish were found stranded on the shores. People quickly connected those sightings with the earthquake, reinforcing the legend.”
Such is the fascination with this tale that a hotel resort named after the oarfish exists. The Spa Resort Ryūgū no Tsukai, located in the town of Higashiizu, 94 miles south of Tokyo, consistently earns five-star ratings on Tripadvisor.
However, ORCA Ireland emphasised that using these oarfish as an earthquake warning system is not recommended. It stated: “Although the legend may be captivating and attractive, there is no scientific proof that the sightings of oarfish can be used in an earthquake warning systems, and ryūgū no tsukai thus remains a legend.”
Sourse: www.express.co.uk
