Rare Oarfish Discovered on the Shores of Encinitas Provides Fresh Insights for Scripps Researchers

Encinitas has become a stage for marine biology wonder again as Scripps Institution of Oceanography reports another rare oarfish discovery on its shores. Just months after the La Jolla Cove incident, this new specimen, while a slightly smaller version at around 9 to 10 feet, was spotted last week by a PhD candidate from the institution, Alison Laferriere, at Grandview Beach. The story, originally shared by a

scripps_ocean

social media post, has given scientists another fascinating opportunity to thoroughly dive into the enigmatic species’ biology and behavior.

A post shared by Scripps Instn. of Oceanography (@scripps_ocean)

Ben Frable, the manager of the Marine Vertebrate Collection at Scripps Oceanography, led the efforts to handle the creature with care. “We took samples and froze the specimen awaiting further study and final preservation in the Marine Vertebrate Collection,” he said in a statement obtained by

scripps_ocean

. The details of this recent discovery come after an earlier find this year when a 12.25-foot-long oarfish was recovered at La Jolla Cove. According to the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, that specimen provided scientists with an unprecedented chance for studies including genomic analysis and understanding reproductive habits.

While the sight of these deep-sea dwellers on the shoreline can create a mix of fascination and concern, experts are searching for answers. Frable remarked, according to

scripps_ocean

, “It may have to do with changes in ocean conditions and increased numbers of oarfish off our coast.” The participation of multiple variables, including possible links to phases in the El Niño and La Niña cycle and recent oceanographic events like red tides, complicate the picture. Despite these complexities, such strandings are instrumental in piecing together the life history of these lesser-known marine giants.

Each stranding serves as a rare window into an otherwise hidden marine frontier. “Rare encounters like this provide an amazing opportunity to learn more about this species and how it lives,” Frable told the Scripps Institution of Oceanography via

Hoodline

. The community can support such intriguing and vital research into marine life by visiting the link in the Scripps Ocean social media bio. Researchers aim to continue to build a comprehensive understanding of the oarfish, dispelling myths and replacing them with scientific data that could better explain these strange visitations from the deep.

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