OKINAWA, Aug 19 (News On Japan) –
A harmful fish identified to often assault folks was noticed within the port of Kunigami Village, Okinawa, sparking warnings after video of the sighting unfold broadly on social media.
The fish, with a black physique, yellow markings, and evident white eyes that give it an offended expression, was recognized as a titan triggerfish, or gomamongara. A witness who filmed the encounter stated, “I noticed a big fish, and when I looked closer, I realized it was a gomamongara, so I quickly recorded it.” The video, as soon as posted on-line, was seen greater than 21.9 million instances.
On social media, divers described it as “scarier than sharks” and shared accounts of almost drowning after being attacked. Footage from diving websites reveals the fish charging relentlessly at divers and even biting their fins.
Experts say the aggression stems from its breeding conduct. According to Masayuki Ishibashi, an aquarium workers member on the Shimonoseki Marine Science Museum Kaikyokan, “From spring to summer, during the breeding season, they become highly territorial and aggressive. Their thick, sturdy teeth allow them to bite through hard objects.” In Japan, the fish inhabits seas south of the Kanto area.
Ishibashi suggested that if encountered, “the best approach is to observe it from a distance and avoid provoking it.”
Source: FNN