In an unexpected twist of events, the blobfish, once branded as the “world’s ugliest animal,” has shed this infamous title. The deep-sea fish has received surprising recognition, winning a prestigious award from a New Zealand environmental organization.
Blobfish Wins New Zealand Fish of the Year
The Mountain to Sea Conservation Trust crowned the blobfish as Fish of the Year this week after a competitive annual competition. Known for its distinctive and droopy appearance, the blobfish captivated voters, securing nearly 1,300 out of more than 5,500 votes cast. This annual competition aims to raise awareness for New Zealand’s freshwater and marine life.
From Ugly to Unforgettable
The blobfish’s success story represents a remarkable shift in perception. Previously infamous as the mascot for the Ugly Animal Preservation Society in 2013, this gelatinous, deep-sea dweller has now gained appreciation for its unique characteristics. While the blobfish appears misshapen when brought to the surface, in its natural deep-sea habitat with high water pressure, it actually resembles a regular fish.
Key Details of the Award
- The orange roughy initially led the competition until two local radio hosts launched a passionate campaign for the blobfish.
- The blobfish lives on the sea bed at depths of 2,000-4,000 ft off the coast of Australia.
- It grows to about 12 inches in length and has a soft body with flabby skin instead of a skeleton and scales.
- The blobfish is considered vulnerable to deep-sea trawling, along with nine of the ten nominees for fish of the year.
As Kim Jones, co-director of the Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust described it, the competition was “a battle of the deep sea forget-me-nots” where the blobfish’s “unconventional beauty” helped it secure victory. This recognition underscores the importance of understanding and valuing biodiversity in our oceans.
