In recent months, rare sightings of deep-sea creatures like anglerfish and goblin sharks have left scientists puzzled and the public intrigued. These mysterious creatures, typically found thousands of meters below the ocean surface, deep sea are appearing in shallow waters or washing up on shores.
While these events are rare, they raise questions about what might be driving these creatures from their natural habitats—and whether it signals something ominous.
In February 2025, a live black seadevil anglerfish was spotted near Tenerife, Spain. This marked the first time a live adult of this species was recorded in daylight. Known for its bioluminescent lure and jagged teeth, this fish typically resides at depths of 500 to 4,500 meters.
Similarly, goblin sharks—prehistoric-looking creatures usually found in deep waters off Japan—have been sighted in unexpected locations like the Gulf of Mexico and Sri Lanka.
These occurrences are not isolated. In recent years, giant oarfish, often called “doomsday fish,” have also surfaced near shores. Some believe seismic activity or oceanic disturbances might drive these creatures upward. For example, over 100 goblin sharks were caught off Taiwan in 2003 after a major earthquake.
Scientists propose several theories to explain why these deep-sea dwellers are appearing near the surface:
Oceanic Disturbances: Earthquakes or underwater volcanic activity may disrupt their habitats, forcing them to migrate.
Climate Change: Rising ocean temperatures and deoxygenation could make deep-sea environments less hospitable.
Human Activity: Deep-sea fishing and underwater mining might inadvertently bring these creatures to shallower waters.
Illness or Predation: Sick or injured animals may rise to escape predators or due to disorientation.
While these factors could explain individual cases, the frequency of such sightings has sparked concern among marine biologists.
The appearance of deep-sea creatures in shallow waters is often viewed as a bad omen in folklore. For instance, oarfish sightings have historically been linked to impending natural disasters like earthquakes or tsunamis.
However, scientists caution against jumping to conclusions without evidence.
What is clear is that these events highlight changes occurring in our oceans.
Researchers emphasize the need for more studies on deep-sea ecosystems. Limited knowledge about these creatures makes it difficult to determine whether their appearances signal broader environmental changes. Increased monitoring could help scientists understand their behavior and identify potential threats to marine life.
