Cozumel, Q.R. — A couple of Cozumel fishermen were surprised by a recent catch when they pulled in a rarely seen oarfish. The fish was caught by local fishermen in a row boat between Cozumel and Playa del Carmen which is said to be rare.
However, biologist Brenda Hernández Hernández disagreed about the rarity of their presence in island waters, noting that on two occasions, she has had encounters with them in the Cozumel marine area.
Although a weight for the fish was not announced, they did say it came in at around 4.5 meters in length. Oarfish are not known for their commercial value or meat quality.
Some believe the fish is a predictor of meteorological catastrophes. Oarfish have also been the source of many historic tales of sea serpents and sea monsters. They can weigh as much as 270 kilos.