In a noteworthy turn of events, the blobfish has redeemed itself by winning the annual competition organized by the Mountain to Sea Conservation Trust, garnering attention for New Zealand's marine life. The blobfish secured approximately 1,300 votes from more than 5,500 participants, showcasing its growing support and advocacy.
Blobfish Triumphs as New Zealand's Fish of the Year
Blobfish Triumphs as New Zealand's Fish of the Year
New Zealand's blobfish, once labeled as the world's ugliest animal, has claimed the title of Fish of the Year in a surprising comeback.
The blobfish, a gelatinous fish native to deep waters off Australia and Tasmania, is often recognized for its unusual appearance. Commonly found at depths of 2,000-4,000 feet, it maintains a different shape under high water pressure than when removed from its habitat—a factor that contributes to its infamous reputation of being classified as "ugly."
Interestingly, the orb-shaped fish has gained traction since its 2013 affiliation with the Ugly Animal Preservation Society, which propelled it into popular culture. This year's runner-up was the orange roughy, another deep-sea fish, but a last-minute appeal from local radio hosts for the blobfish encouraged voters to support the underdog.
Radio hosts Sarah Gandy and Paul Flynn fervently campaigned for the blobfish to garner attention and votes, describing the blobfish's life spent on the ocean floor as patient yet bullying. In their words, they embraced the blobfish's moment, stating, "it's time for the blobfish to have his moment in the sun."
Furthermore, the blobfish relies on a diet of mollusks, crabs, and lobsters, featuring a flabby body structure rather than bones. Out of the ten nominees for this year's Fish of the Year, nine are recognized as vulnerable species, illustrating the conservation message underlying the competition.
New Zealand is also known for conducting a Bird of the Year contest, recently awarding the hoiho, a rare penguin species, with the latest title.
Interestingly, the orb-shaped fish has gained traction since its 2013 affiliation with the Ugly Animal Preservation Society, which propelled it into popular culture. This year's runner-up was the orange roughy, another deep-sea fish, but a last-minute appeal from local radio hosts for the blobfish encouraged voters to support the underdog.
Radio hosts Sarah Gandy and Paul Flynn fervently campaigned for the blobfish to garner attention and votes, describing the blobfish's life spent on the ocean floor as patient yet bullying. In their words, they embraced the blobfish's moment, stating, "it's time for the blobfish to have his moment in the sun."
Furthermore, the blobfish relies on a diet of mollusks, crabs, and lobsters, featuring a flabby body structure rather than bones. Out of the ten nominees for this year's Fish of the Year, nine are recognized as vulnerable species, illustrating the conservation message underlying the competition.
New Zealand is also known for conducting a Bird of the Year contest, recently awarding the hoiho, a rare penguin species, with the latest title.
