In a surprising twist, the blobfish has been recognized as Fish of the Year in New Zealand after rallying an astonishing amount of support from voters.
Blobfish Triumphs as New Zealand's Fish of the Year
Blobfish Triumphs as New Zealand's Fish of the Year
The quirky blobfish, often teased for its unusual looks, wins a prestigious title in an environmental competition.
The blobfish, dubbed the world's ugliest animal, was awarded the title by the Mountain to Sea Conservation Trust in an annual competition aimed at raising awareness of New Zealand's aquatic biodiversity. The blobfish amassed an impressive 1,300 votes from a total of more than 5,500 cast, making it a true underdog in the race.
This gelatinous creature, typically found in the deep sea off the coasts of Australia and Tasmania, can reach lengths of about 12 inches (30cm). Its odd appearance is accentuated when it is brought to the surface quickly, causing its body to lose shape under pressure. Despite this, in its natural habitat, it looks quite normal and resembles any typical fish.
Placed second was the orange roughy, another peculiar deep-sea fish characterized by its mucous canals. Kim Jones, co-director of the Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust, commented on the charming rivalry between these two underwater oddities, noting that the blobfish’s unconventional appeal may have garnered it the win.
Local radio hosts Sarah Gandy and Paul Flynn played a significant role in galvanizing support for the blobfish, urging their listeners to help the fish claim victory. Their enthusiastic campaign highlighted the need for a beloved ugly creature to have its moment of recognition.
The blobfish, which primarily feeds on mollusks, crustaceans, and sea urchins, is currently classified as vulnerable, alongside nine other nominees in the competition. The event aims not only to celebrate marine life but also draw attention to the conservation efforts needed to protect these species from threats like deep-sea trawling.
New Zealand has a parallel contest for avian species, with the latest Bird of the Year honored being the rare hoiho penguin. As nature continues to engage and surprise, both competitions help underscore the importance of preserving our planet’s unique biodiversity.
This gelatinous creature, typically found in the deep sea off the coasts of Australia and Tasmania, can reach lengths of about 12 inches (30cm). Its odd appearance is accentuated when it is brought to the surface quickly, causing its body to lose shape under pressure. Despite this, in its natural habitat, it looks quite normal and resembles any typical fish.
Placed second was the orange roughy, another peculiar deep-sea fish characterized by its mucous canals. Kim Jones, co-director of the Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust, commented on the charming rivalry between these two underwater oddities, noting that the blobfish’s unconventional appeal may have garnered it the win.
Local radio hosts Sarah Gandy and Paul Flynn played a significant role in galvanizing support for the blobfish, urging their listeners to help the fish claim victory. Their enthusiastic campaign highlighted the need for a beloved ugly creature to have its moment of recognition.
The blobfish, which primarily feeds on mollusks, crustaceans, and sea urchins, is currently classified as vulnerable, alongside nine other nominees in the competition. The event aims not only to celebrate marine life but also draw attention to the conservation efforts needed to protect these species from threats like deep-sea trawling.
New Zealand has a parallel contest for avian species, with the latest Bird of the Year honored being the rare hoiho penguin. As nature continues to engage and surprise, both competitions help underscore the importance of preserving our planet’s unique biodiversity.
