A groundbreaking study recently published in JMIRx Bio by scientist Floe Foxon investigates the possibility that the Loch Ness Monster, a creature from Scottish folklore, could actually be a giant eel. By using previous estimates of the monster’s size to calculate the probability of encountering a similarly-sized eel, the study disproves the theory that giant eels could explain the sightings of larger creatures in Loch Ness, a freshwater lake located in the Scottish Highlands.
For years, the Loch Ness Monster has captured the imagination of the world, with some speculating that giant eels may be responsible for the sightings. However, this research challenges that belief. The study analyzed catch data from Loch Ness and other freshwater bodies in Europe to estimate the likelihood of encountering eels as large as the Loch Ness Monster. According to the study, the chances of encountering a 1-meter eel in Loch Ness are approximately 1 in 50,000, which could explain sightings of smaller unknown creatures. However, the probability of finding much larger eels is virtually zero, debunking the theory that giant eels account for sightings of larger animals.
While the study acknowledges the potential presence of large eels in the loch, it concludes that purely statistical evidence does not support the existence of exceptionally large eels. The author, Floe Foxon, states, “In this new work from the Folk Zoology Society, a much-needed level of scientific rigor and data are brought to a topic that is otherwise as slippery as an eel. Contrary to popular conception, the intersection between folklore and zoology is amenable to scientific analysis and has the potential to provide valuable insights into anthrozoological phenomena. This work also champions open access science and nontraditional publishing—the future of scientific publication.”
This study contributes to our understanding of the Loch Ness Monster phenomenon and continues the quest to unravel the truth behind one of the world’s most enduring mysteries.
More information:
Floe Foxon et al, The Loch Ness Monster: If It’s Real, Could It Be an Eel? JMIRx Bio (2023). DOI: 10.2196/49063 xbio.jmir.org/2023/1/e49063
Provided by
JMIR Publications
Citation:
Unraveling the Loch Ness Monster’s eel connection (2023, July 24)
retrieved 24 July 2023
from https://phys.org/news/2023-07-unraveling-loch-ness-monster-eel.html
This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no
part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.
Denial of responsibility! TechCodex is an automatic aggregator of the all world’s media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
Jessica Irvine is a tech enthusiast specializing in gadgets. From smart home devices to cutting-edge electronics, Jessica explores the world of consumer tech, offering readers comprehensive reviews, hands-on experiences, and expert insights into the coolest and most innovative gadgets on the market.
