The oarfish is a long, silvery fish that lives in the deep ocean. It is rarely seen alive and is often mistaken for a sea serpent.
The oarfish found off the San Diego coast is only the 20th time one has washed up in California since 1901.
Oarfish are often associated with natural disasters, but there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
Scientists from NOAA and Scripps Institution of Oceanography are conducting a necropsy on the oarfish to determine the cause of death.
The discovery of the oarfish provides a rare opportunity to learn more about the deep sea and its inhabitants.
The oarfish was discovered by a group of snorkelers and kayakers, who helped bring it ashore for study.
The oarfish will be preserved for future study and research.
The discovery of the oarfish is a reminder of the beauty and mystery of the ocean.
Visit the NOAA and Scripps Institution of Oceanography websites to learn more about the oarfish and other deep sea creatures.
Share this story with your friends and family to raise awareness about the importance of ocean conservation.
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