In Japanese mythology, the deep-sea-dwelling oarfish is a harbinger of impending disaster. For scientists in California, where three oarfish have washed up in recent months, it’s an exciting find.

Rare ‘Doomsday Fish’ Considered ‘Bad Omen’ Washed Up on California Beach, Leaves Scientists Baffled A rare deep-water oarfish, considered a harbinger of bad news, was spotted again on the shores of Encinitas,

The doomsday fish got its name because it looks like a mythical sea creature, with a long, ribbon-shaped body that can grow up to 30 feet.

A silvery 10-foot long creature, the oarfish has fueled fishermen’s tales of sea serpents — and in some cultures has been a portent of natural disasters.

Considered to be the origin of the sea serpent tale, giant oarfish are a species yet to be largely researched by scientists.

If one oarfish landing on a beach is a sign of a disaster to come, how bad will it be if three wash up in quick succession?

An oarfish, sometimes called the 'doomsday fish,' was spotted in California for the second time this year. The extremely rare creature has only been seen in the state 21 times since 1901.

A ‘doomsday fish’ has washed up on the shores California, the third sighting of the elusive deep-sea species in the state during the past three months.

What a week it’s been! But hey, we made it through. Time to crack a cold one, put up our feet, and browse the New York Times science section for something to take our minds off the news while we wind down.