The blobfish has made headlines this week after winning the title of Fish of the Year orchestrated by the Mountain to Sea Conservation Trust, gaining nearly 1,300 votes from over 5,500 cast. Known for its soft, lumpy exterior that once captured the public's attention as the world's ugliest animal, the blobfish has emerged victorious in a light-hearted yet serious competition aimed at promoting awareness regarding New Zealand's diverse aquatic life.
The annual contest saw the blobfish triumph against strong competition, including the orange roughy, a deep-sea fish known for its mucous-covered head. Kim Jones, co-director of the trust, noted the appreciation for the blobfish's unique attributes, describing the election as a "battle of deep-sea forget-me-nots." Local radio hosts Sarah Gandy and Paul Flynn played a significant role in boosting the blobfish's visibility, encouraging listeners to support the marine underdog during their radio show.
While they often remain misjudged due to their appearance, blobfish are actually quite different in their natural habitat, where their form is supported by high underwater pressure. However, as they are brought to the surface, they become the gelatinous creatures that earned them their infamous title.
This year's competition has also shed light on the fact that many of the nominated fish, including the blobfish, are facing vulnerabilities, especially concerning threats from deep-sea trawling. The blobfish is now recognized for its ecological significance, alongside the likes of New Zealand's Bird of the Year competition, which keeps a spotlight on local wildlife conservation.
As the blobfish enjoys its brief moment of fame, there’s a reminder embedded in this light-hearted contest: the need for active efforts in preserving the marine ecosystems that are essential for species survival.
The annual contest saw the blobfish triumph against strong competition, including the orange roughy, a deep-sea fish known for its mucous-covered head. Kim Jones, co-director of the trust, noted the appreciation for the blobfish's unique attributes, describing the election as a "battle of deep-sea forget-me-nots." Local radio hosts Sarah Gandy and Paul Flynn played a significant role in boosting the blobfish's visibility, encouraging listeners to support the marine underdog during their radio show.
While they often remain misjudged due to their appearance, blobfish are actually quite different in their natural habitat, where their form is supported by high underwater pressure. However, as they are brought to the surface, they become the gelatinous creatures that earned them their infamous title.
This year's competition has also shed light on the fact that many of the nominated fish, including the blobfish, are facing vulnerabilities, especially concerning threats from deep-sea trawling. The blobfish is now recognized for its ecological significance, alongside the likes of New Zealand's Bird of the Year competition, which keeps a spotlight on local wildlife conservation.
As the blobfish enjoys its brief moment of fame, there’s a reminder embedded in this light-hearted contest: the need for active efforts in preserving the marine ecosystems that are essential for species survival.
