Blobfish: World’s ugliest animal crowned Fish of the Year in stunning return to the spotlight

It may look a little sad, but the blobfish has plenty of reasons to smile after a New Zealand environment group crowned it Fish of the Year.

The humble blobfish has a unique history with the world, winning multiple accolades for it’s unique appearance. In 2013, the fish was crowned the world’s ugliest species by the Ugly Animal Preservation Society. However, in 2025, it appears the world has looked past its exterior.

Mountain to Sea Conservation Trust awarded the blobby in appearance fish with its highest honour, after it secured almost 23 per cent of votes.

The fish, which leaves deep on the ocean floor at around 2000 - 4000 ft, can grow to around 30cm in length and is usually found off the Australian and New Zealand coast.

Best known for its bloated and deflated appearance, the blobfish actually looks very different when at home at the bottom of the ocean.

At the depths of the sea, the blobfish resembles a reasonably standard fish. When the fish is brought to the surface after being caught by fisherman or nets, its body becomes misshapen, deforming into a blob-like state.

Kim Jones, co-director of the Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust, said it was a close competition for the top spot, with the orange roughy giving the blob fish a run for its money.

“A battle of two quirky deep sea critters (took place), with the blobfish’s unconventional beauty helping get voters over the line.”

In New Zealand, celebrations have erupted for the cult favourite fish.

“The blobfish had been sitting patiently on the ocean floor, mouth open waiting for the next mollusc to come through to eat,” More FM radio hosts Sarah Gandy and Paul Flynn said.

“He has been bullied his whole life and we thought, ‘Stuff this, it’s time for the blobfish to have his moment in the sun’, and what a glorious moment it is!”