science

Summary

The blobfish, once named the "world’s ugliest animal," has won New Zealand’s Fish of the Year contest.

Living in deep, high-pressure waters off New Zealand and Australia, the gelatinous fish lacks a full skeleton and muscles, allowing it to float.

Despite its odd appearance, it is a dedicated parent, protecting up to 100,000 eggs. The contest, run by the Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust, saw a record 5,583 votes, with the blobfish securing 1,286.

Deep-sea trawling threatens its population, but conservation efforts are gaining attention.