Japan’s Underwater Crop Circle Was Made By A Tiny Pufferfish

The mystery behind an underwater crop circle in Japan has been solved.

Underwater photographer Yoji Ookata spotted a strangely beautiful structure off the coast of the southern Japanese island of Anami Oshima. According to Geekosystem, the strange formation, dubbed the mystery circle, could not be explained by Ookata or the camera crew.

So what built it? Underwater aliens? An ancient sea creature?

It turns out that the strange circle was created by an ordinary pufferfish.

According to Japanese broadcaster NHK the decorative circle was created by a single male pufferfish. Researchers believe that the pufferfish was trying to attract a mate. In addition to the decorative ridges, the pufferfish also placed small pebbles and shells around the circle.

But the underwater circle is more than just a sweet pufferfish bachelor pad. In addition to its mate attracting duties, the circle has another function. Kozmedia reports that female pufferfish will lay its eggs on the circle and the decorative edges will protect the eggs from the ocean currents. The small shells and rocks may also provide the small fish with food.

Here’s a video about Japan’s underwater crop circles.