Sunfish surprise: Rare 'cannibal fish' washes up in Oregon
One might think this is a scene from a horror film. A rare fish has been found on a beach in Oregon, USA. It measures nearly 2 metres in length and has a large mouth with sharp teeth. Scientists identified it as a sunfish, also known as the "cannibal fish".
An unusual fish was found on the beach in Oregon, USA. It is a sunfish, also known as the "cannibal fish". It inhabits the depths of the Pacific Ocean and preys on various invertebrates and its species.
The fish was discovered on 22 April. The unusual find was reported to the staff at the Seaside Aquarium.
As we can see in the photos shared on social media, this fish was hard to miss. It measures nearly 2 metres in length and draws attention with its unusual appearance, particularly its large and sharp teeth.
They showed what the "cannibal fish" ate
Specialists from the Seaside Aquarium quickly recognized that they were dealing with one of the most voracious creatures on Earth. Sunfish consume over 90 different marine species, including each other. They become cannibalistic only when they reach a certain size.
The contents of their stomachs often include whole fish and squids. Scientists shared their observations on Facebook, showing photos of the sunfish's recent meals.
Sunfish inhabit the eastern and western Pacific Ocean. They are hermaphrodites, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. They live deep underwater, even at depths of 1,700 metres. It is therefore no wonder that the sight of this marine creature on the beach caused quite a sensation.
The same happened a few years ago when beachgoers discovered a fish on one of the beaches in California. It was slightly smaller than the one found in Oregon.
It is unclear why deep-sea fish appear near the shore. It is possible that they approach it while chasing their prey.
