Residents of Liu’ao Township in China found this colossal sunfish washed up
Residents of Liu’ao Township in China found this colossal sunfish washed up
Residents of a Chinese village have been spooked after two colossal and bizarre fish washed up on their shores in the space of just three days.

Residents of Liu'ao Township in Zhangpu County, Fujian, East China, first found a large ocean sunfish (Mola mola) before coming across an oarfish lying on the sand.

Both the strange-looking creatures were dead by the time they washed ashore, and it is unclear what might have caused them to die.

Local authorities were called on both occasions and confirmed the species of the two unexpected visitors, which are now being kept for research purposes.

Villagers came across this 11ft oarfish on the beach just three days later
Villagers came across this 11ft oarfish on the beach just three days later
Villagers said they had planned to gut and sell the oarfish (Regalecus), but the authorities said they could not find a buyer.

The ocean sunfish is the heaviest known bony fish in the world, with adults weighing up to a tonne.

The oarfish, which just happens to belong to the longest known bony fish species, was discovered just three days after the sunfish and was measured at around 11ft in length.

But amazingly the snake-like monster is considered just an adolescent.

Adult oarfish have been known to grow up to 36 feet in length.

Both of the specimens have now been turned over to marine experts.

They are expected to be displayed at local museums after scientists have finished studying them.

Liu'ao Township police have urged villagers to stay clear of unusual fish species.