This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
18-foot sea creature found off Catalina Island (Video)
Marine science instructor Jasmine Santana said she spotted an 18-foot oarfish — which resembles an eel — while snorkeling near Toyon Bay.
(
Courtesy of Catalina Island Marine Institute at Toyon Bay
)
The silver carcass of a rare 18-foot oarfish is being preserved in ice after it was discovered over the weekend along Catalina Island.
Marine science instructor Jasmine Santana said she spotted the fish — which resembles an eel — while snorkeling near Toyon Bay.
"I recognized it once I saw it and I was like, 'Oh my god, this is an oarfish, but it's huge!' And there's no way anyone's going to believe me if I just tell them, so I decided I should grab it (laughs) and pull it out of the water," Santana said.
18-foot oarfish found off Catalina Island
Video: Courtesy of Mark Waddington
Santana said she was frightened at first because she wasn't sure whether it was alive or dead.
Mark Waddington of the Guided Discoveries' Catalina Island Marine Institute said it appeared the fish died of natural causes.
Sponsored message
"It's a once in a lifetime event. Guided Discoveries has been in operation on Catalina Island since the 70's. Nothing like this has ever washed up," Waddington said.
He added he's not sure what will happen to the remains, but he would like to see the skeleton displayed after it decays.
RELATED: Rare Stejneger's beaked whale washes ashore in Venice Beach
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
