Blobfish: From ‘World’s Ugliest Animal’ to Fish of the Year

Once known as the world’s ugliest animal, the blobfish now holds a much more prestigious title: it has been named Fish of the Year. This deep-sea species has captured the public’s admiration and the attention of organizations dedicated to marine conservation.

Living between 600 and 1,200 meters below the surface in the deep waters of New Zealand, Australia, and Tasmania, the blobfish thrives in an environment of extreme pressure—up to 120 times greater than at sea level. To adapt to these harsh conditions, it has developed a unique body structure: lacking a swim bladder, rigid bones, or well-developed muscles, its gelatinous body has a lower density than water, allowing it to float effortlessly.

Recently, this fascinating creature won the Fish of the Year award in a competition organized by the Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust, a New Zealand-based institution dedicated to marine preservation. In the contest, the blobfish secured 1,286 of the 5,583 votes, surpassing the orange roughy, which had claimed victory in the previous edition.

A Fish That Became an Icon

The blobfish first gained fame over a decade ago when a photo taken by a crew member of a New Zealand research vessel went viral on the internet. Its unusual appearance quickly became an internet meme, sparking curiosity and discussions about deep-sea marine life.

Now, with its new title, the blobfish is receiving even more recognition, highlighting the importance of marine ecosystem conservation and showcasing the unique beauty of creatures that inhabit the planet’s most remote waters.

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