Entertainment

10 facts about the Blobfish, aka the ‘ugliest creature of all time’

Even if you didn’t know the creature’s name, there’s no doubt you’ve seen a blobfish — unless you’ve lived under a rock since the internet became a thing.

Blobfish are hideous, perennially sad-looking creatures that have been featured in many memes over the years (“How I feel on Mondays,” “Blobfish is my spirit animal,” “Sad blobfish is sad,” “Go home evolution, you’re drunk,” and so forth).

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It’s probably fair to assume you don’t know much about them other than they look like a pile of slime with a frown drawn on. But fear not — this piece is here to change that. When you’re done reading, you’ll be clued up with some of the most interesting facts about the world’s ugliest living thing. Get ready to amaze everyone at your next social gathering. Here are ten facts about the blobfish.

10. They’re part of a large family of fish

Blobfish belong to the Psychrolutidae fish family, which comprises 35 recognized species in eight genera. The specimen in the most famous photo of a blobfish (in this article’s featured image) has the scientific name Psychrolutes microporos.

Every member of the Psychrolutidae family is a bottom-dwelling marine sculpin. They’re tadpole-like in shape, with large heads and bodies that taper back into small, flat tails. Loose skin covers a gelatinous layer of flesh, and eyes are high on their heads. Most species have pectoral fins resembling leaves and lack scales, while others are covered in soft spines.

9. They’re not quite as hideous as the famous photo suggests

Blobfish aren’t going to win any beauty pageants anytime soon, but they aren’t quite as sad-looking or ugly as that famous photo suggests. That specimen is obviously out of water and, most importantly, dead, so it isn’t looking its best.

When blobfish are removed from the water, they expand due to decompression, their skin relaxes, and their features distort, resulting in a big nose and frowning mouth. Placing them on a solid surface worsens matters, as their gelatinous tissue loses its structure, causing the creature to transform into a shapeless mass of mushy flesh, hence the appearance of our famous friend.

8. They live in three oceans

For such cumbersome-looking creatures, blobfish sure do get around. They frequent no less than three oceans in different parts of the world.

Various species of blobfish are found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. While most blobfish reside in the waters around Australia and New Zealand, others can be found deep in the sea between the United States and Europe.

A spiny blobfish Image via National Geographic

7. You won’t find them near the surface

If you’re planning on fishing for blobfish with a standard rod, don’t bother. While many fish species can be found swimming near the surface of the waters they inhabit, blobfish are strictly deep-sea fish.

To find a blobfish in its natural habitat, you’d typically have to head to depths between 300 and 1,700 meters. They’ve been seen as close to the surface as 100 meters down and as deep as 2,800 meters.

6. They have no swim bladder

A significant factor in why blobfish don’t hang near the surface is that, unlike most fish species, they lack a swim bladder. This makes their swim style lazy and lacking anything resembling effort. A swim bladder is an organ resembling an air sac that helps fish swim near the surface to control their buoyancy.

If blobfish had one, they’d be crushed under the immense pressure at the depths they live at. Instead, the blobfish’s fatty body composition, less dense than the water it lives in, keeps them safe.

5. They eat whatever comes their way

As we’ve already established, blobfish are incredibly lazy. Therefore, it should be no surprise that they’re far from aggressive predators. Their modus operandi regarding sustenance is to eat whatever comes their way.

Their neutral buoyancy means they float around randomly. So, rather than hunting, if they float near something edible, or if something edible swims or floats near them, they’ll pounce on it and consume it. They’ll eat sea snails, sea urchins, bacteria, crabs, and lobsters, amongst other things.

4. They lay thousands of eggs

Not much is known about blobfish reproductive habits, as observing them when they live so far beneath the surface is challenging. It’s presumed that once blobfish find a mate, they cling to them for life due to their chronic laziness and lack of movement.

However, what is known about them is that they lay thousands of eggs at a time. They’ve been observed laying them on rocks and patrolling the area from nearby. It’s also believed that expectant blobfish mothers will gather and make nests near each other as a protection method.

Image via Fascinating Wonders on YouTube

3. They have no known predators

The blobfish should consider itself quite lucky because it has no known predators, but that doesn’t mean there are no threats to its survival.

Destructive human activities, such as deep-sea fishing and bottom trawling (when a weighted fishing net is dragged along the sea floor), can put blobfish at risk. Moreover, as a creature that thrives in colder waters, blobfish are at serious risk of being negatively impacted by the world’s warming oceans (organizations like the Ugly Animal Preservation Society are doing their best to raise awareness of the dangers to blobfish wellbeing, which is nice).

2. They were first discovered as recently as 2003

The first blobfish was found in 2003 when a New Zealand research vessel crew member snapped a photo of a funny-looking creature during the NORFANZ expedition. It was hauled up from the depths of the Norfolk Ridge, north-west of mainland Aotearoa.

Due to its appearance, that first-known specimen was immediately given its name. Scientists nicknamed it “Mr. Blobby” after the round, pink British novelty television character of the same name. Since then, many more have been found and split into different genera.

1. It’s assumed they live long lives

As with many aspects of the blobfish’s existence, the finer details of their lifespan aren’t known. However, given what is known about most deepwater fish, it’s assumed they live incredibly long lives.

Fish that live so far down tend to grow slowly and take an extended period to mature fully. Take the rougheye rockfish, for example; it lives around 150 to 450 meters beneath the surface and can live for more than 200 years. Whether or not blobfish last that long is unclear, but there’s a strong chance they’ll outlive most humans.

By: Kevin Stewart
Title: 10 facts about the Blobfish, aka the ‘ugliest creature of all time’
Sourced From: wegotthiscovered.com/fyi/10-facts-about-the-blobfish-aka-the-ugliest-creature-of-all-time/
Published Date: Thu, 25 Apr 2024 12:05:11 +0000

Jason Harris

I’m Jason, and I write for ValleyNewspaper.com!

I love to travel and enjoy doing things outdoors, like hiking or working remotely from quaint little coffee shops.

The best thing about the blog for me is the ability to discuss anything, from personal life to current events.

I enjoy spending time with my Wife, 2 boys, and my Pug, Patty. I love traveling and speaking at social media events.

If you want to know anything else, ask!

Entertainment

I’m a former vet assistant who has trimmed hundreds of dogs’ nails — this nail grinder is the most beginner-friendly tool

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

A side-by-side image of a person grinding a dog's nail using the Dremel grinder and the grinder laid on a wood surface. The Dremel PawControl Deluxe Pet Nail Trimming Kit includes everything you need to grind a dog's nails.

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Jackie Brown; Lisa Sabatini/Business Insider

Trimming your dog's nails is an essential part of routine pet care, but it can be intimidating for many dog owners. If you're worried you'll accidentally hurt your dog while cutting their nails, you can always take them to the vet or groomer to get the job done. Using a dog nail grinder at home is also an excellent alternative that can save you plenty of time and money.

As a former veterinary assistant who has trimmed thousands of dogs' nails, I know that not all nail grinders are the same. Some are designed for use by professional groomers who are comfortable and familiar with using them safely. However, most people benefit from extra safety features, and that's why I love the Dremel PawControl Deluxe Pet Nail Trimming Kit. The Dremel nail grinder is not only effective and user-friendly, but it also has a guard that protects you and your dog from the spinning parts.

How it works

Nail grinders are a great option for most dogs, including those with very thick nails. They're particularly useful for dogs with black nails that don't have a visible quick, which is the vein inside of each nail. Plus, dogs that are anxious about having their nails trimmed with regular clippers may be more willing to accept a nail grinder.

The Dremel PawControl Kit includes everything you need to gently and easily grind down your dog's nails, including an optional guard attachment along with a variety of sanding bands and discs. The guard provides a barrier between the spinning parts of the tool so nothing can get caught up in them.

I personally preferred using the sanding disc, which the manufacturer recommends for beginner users. You insert your dog's nail through the opening in the clear guard attachment, which is designed to ensure you are grinding the nail at the ideal 45-degree angle.

Our review of the Dremel dog nail grinder

I first used the Dremel PawControl when I was testing grinders for our guide to the best dog nail clippers. I tried four different nail-grinding tools on two dogs with different-sized nails.

The Dremel PawControl stands out for several reasons. It's lightweight, gentle, and quiet, and offers four speed settings so you can select the one that's most comfortable for you and your dog. Designed for pet owners, it's easy to use and comes with various grinding attachments for flexibility. Plus, the guard attachment offers added peace of mind so you can focus on the task at hand.

A close-up image of the safety guard on the Dremel dog nail grinder. The removable nail guard attachment is recommended for new users.

Jackie Brown/Business Insider

Dremel is renowned for its high-quality rotary tools for tasks like cutting, sanding, and engraving. The PawControl should last many years and can even be used for tasks beyond nail grinding. While the grinding heads will need occasional replacement, the included ones should last for several years of use with your dog. It's also powered by a USB rechargeable lithium-ion battery, allowing you to use it anywhere without the hassle of a cord getting in your way while you work.

Nail grinders have a definite learning curve, but this one comes with an easy-to-follow Quick Start Guide that walks you through the entire process. It explains which attachments and grinding speeds are best for beginners and offers tips for getting your dog comfortable with the tool.

The Dremel PawControl Quick Start Guide has text and diagrams showing how to introduce a dog to the nail grinder. If you're new to nail grinding, the Quick Start Guide provides clear directions and helpful illustrations.

Lisa Sabatini/Business Insider

Cons to consider

The guard attachment enhances safety, but its single opening for inserting your dog's nail can limit maneuverability. However, you can always remove the guard attachment if you feel confident in your skills. Since this grinder is cordless, you'll need to remember to charge it before use.

The bottom line

If you're looking for a pet nail grinder, the Dremel PawControl Deluxe Pet Nail Trimming Kit is an excellent choice, especially if you're new to using these tools. It's effective, gentle, quiet, lightweight, and cordless, and thanks to the guard attachments, its safety is unparalleled.

Read the original article on Business Insider

——————————————-
By: jlfranza@yahoo.com (Jackie Brown)
Title: I’m a former vet assistant who has trimmed hundreds of dogs’ nails — this nail grinder is the most beginner-friendly tool
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/guides/pets/dremel-dog-nail-grinder-review
Published Date: Mon, 17 Mar 2025 18:22:20 +0000

Jason Harris

I’m Jason, and I write for ValleyNewspaper.com!

I love to travel and enjoy doing things outdoors, like hiking or working remotely from quaint little coffee shops.

The best thing about the blog for me is the ability to discuss anything, from personal life to current events.

I enjoy spending time with my Wife, 2 boys, and my Pug, Patty. I love traveling and speaking at social media events.

If you want to know anything else, ask!

Entertainment

An ex-Microsoft VP of HR explains 3 things you can do to stay on your boss’s radar and off the layoff list

There is a yellow background and three small white figurines in business suits, with a large handheld magnifying glass centered on the middle figure. Chris Williams, ex-Microsoft VP of HR, wrote that being visible helps avoid uncomfortable inquiries like DOGE's "five bullet points" requested email.

sakchai vongsasiripat/Getty Images

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Chris Williams is an ex-VP of HR at Microsoft and has over 40 years of executive experience.
Williams said being visible can help workers avoid DOGE-like emails requesting accomplishments.
He shared how to track accomplishments, get recognized, and know when to help out at work.

The "five things you did last week" email that DOGE sent to all federal workers has raised an important question for employees everywhere. How do you stay on your boss's radar in a positive way?

Simply put, if your boss already knew what you were up to, they wouldn't need to send an email like that. As the former VP of HR for Microsoft with 40 years of business leadership experience, I've seen a lot of people who know how to stay visible.

Being visible helps avoid uncomfortable inquiries like the "five bullet points" request and makes performance reviews easier for both you and your boss. It helps you avoid being labeled an underperformer when cuts are considered and it can help you be more top of mind when opportunities arise — it's a great way to "manage up."

Here are three ways to help you stay visible to your boss and reduce your chances of being laid off.

You should always track your accomplishments at work

It doesn't matter if your boss sends an intrusive status report request like "send five bullet points from last week" or a simple "Hey, what's up?" inquiry; you should always be ready to talk about what you've been up to.

That's why you should track your accomplishments. There are many ways to do this. Some people keep a "brag book," a simple document where they list the significant things they've done. Others use a notes application or even a complex database.

For years I kept a simple four-column spreadsheet

My spreadsheet had columns labeled: Date, Item, Significance, and Notes. Every day, or at worst, every week, I'd add a couple of rows to the sheet. I'd insert the date and a phrase for the item — just enough to remind me what it was.

In the significance column, I'd put a number to represent how important the item felt at the time, with "5" being the highest. In notes, I'd add a comment or even a link to the project or document.

Then whenever I wanted, I could sort by significance and date and get the most important things from the last month, week, or year. When bosses requested a progress report, I was always ready to respond: "I'm glad you asked."

The best way to ensure this happens is to make it a habit. Spend two minutes updating your list at the end of every day. This also helps at performance review time, where you'll inevitably need to report on your accomplishments for the year.

Don't be shy to take credit where due

Another important way to stay visible is to ensure you take credit when you deserve it. Too many people get shy or humble at work and let others grab the limelight.

Work is not a place for excessive humility. The forever humble, the "I'm just doing my job" kind of people are often overlooked. They're just doing their jobs, after all. If you want to be seen, you have to be visible. Don't be afraid to take credit for your accomplishments.

Ways to make sure you get credit for your work

Insist your name appears on that proposal or presentation. Don't be afraid to put your name under the title of that document. Don't be shy about answering "That was me" when someone asks about a great idea.

Also, don't let others steal your work without objection — even if you lose a battle for representation. For example, when your boss takes the credit, putting them on notice helps for the next time. If you simply let people take credit for your work, they'll never stop.

Raise your hand and help out

A final way to stay visible is to not shrink into a corner when the boss needs help. When the call comes for volunteers, raise your hand.

One of the best ways to stay on your boss's good side is to help them get their job done. The best way to do that is to do things they don't want or have time to do. Just being able to say, "Don't worry, I'll handle that," means a lot.

But it's often hard to know what they need help with. You don't do their job, so it's a challenge to understand where you can jump in. When they explicitly ask, that's where you can most certainly be useful.

Know when to volunteer and when to sit back

You don't have to raise your hand all the time. You don't have to answer your boss's every whim. You shouldn't stretch yourself beyond your limits just to be in their good graces.

But you should also not be the one who never volunteers. Your boss will notice that you never pitch in or lend a hand to your peers. That's how you stay on your boss's radar in the worst possible way.

Essentially, if you track your performance, take credit where due, and learn when to help out, you'll never be blindsided by the "five things you did last week" request because both you and your boss will already know. These are three great ways to increase visibility at work.

Chris Williams is a former VP of HR at Microsoft. He's an executive-level advisor and consultant with over 40 years of experience leading and building teams.

Read the original article on Business Insider

——————————————-
By: insider@insider.com (Chris Williams )
Title: An ex-Microsoft VP of HR explains 3 things you can do to stay on your boss’s radar and off the layoff list
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/how-to-stay-on-boss-radar-off-layoff-list-2025-3
Published Date: Tue, 18 Mar 2025 09:07:01 +0000

Jason Harris

I’m Jason, and I write for ValleyNewspaper.com!

I love to travel and enjoy doing things outdoors, like hiking or working remotely from quaint little coffee shops.

The best thing about the blog for me is the ability to discuss anything, from personal life to current events.

I enjoy spending time with my Wife, 2 boys, and my Pug, Patty. I love traveling and speaking at social media events.

If you want to know anything else, ask!

Entertainment

AI Regulation Isn’t Over; It’s Evolving: What Marketers Need to Know

The notion of “AI Regulation is Dead” is misleading; instead, AI governance is gaining momentum with more structured and stringent guidelines emerging worldwide. For marketers to thrive in this evolving landscape, it’s crucial to prioritize transparency, compliance, and ethical practices. This article explores how marketers can navigate new regulations and employ AI responsibly to maintain trust and competitiveness.

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Key Takeaways

– AI regulation is rapidly evolving with comprehensive frameworks like the EU’s AI Act.
– Marketers must focus on transparent and ethical use of AI in campaigns.
– Adapting to regulatory changes is critical for maintaining customer trust and compliance.

The Rise of AI Governance

AI governance is swiftly advancing, with frameworks such as the EU’s AI Act setting the stage for stringent regulations. These regulations are designed to ensure AI technologies are used responsibly, safeguarding user privacy and data security. Marketers must remain vigilant and proactive in understanding these regulations, aligning their AI-driven strategies accordingly. As regulators worldwide continue to focus on AI implications, following these laws will be pivotal to navigating the global digital economy.

The Importance of Transparency in AI Campaigns

Transparency is becoming a cornerstone of AI regulation. Marketers are expected to clearly disclose data sources and algorithmic decision-making processes in their AI-driven campaigns. By being transparent, marketers can not only comply with regulations but also build trust with consumers. This includes providing customers with clarity on how their data is used and offering them control over their personal information. Such practices are not just regulatory requirements but also key to fostering long-term customer relationships.

Ethical AI: Investing in Responsible Practices

Investing in ethical AI practices is more crucial than ever. Marketers should engage in industry-wide discussions to set standards for responsible AI use. This involves creating AI systems that are fair, unbiased, and respectful of user privacy. Ethical AI practices can enhance brand reputation while preventing potential legal issues. By prioritizing ethics, marketers can contribute to sustainable and responsible AI advancements, benefiting both their businesses and the broader society.

Leveraging AI Responsibly for Enhanced Customer Experiences

AI, when used responsibly, can significantly enhance customer experiences. It offers personalized, efficient, and innovative solutions that meet consumer needs while respecting their privacy. Marketers should leverage AI tools that align with ethical standards, safeguarding personal data and ensuring compliance with privacy regulations. By doing so, AI can help marketers deliver superior customer service without compromising trust and legal integrity.

Recap

As AI regulation continues to evolve, marketers must adapt by embracing transparency, compliance, and ethical practices. These steps are essential for maintaining trust and competitiveness in a digital marketplace increasingly governed by AI laws. What specific strategies will you implement to ensure transparency in your AI campaigns and align with emerging regulations?

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By: Phil Alvarez
Title: AI Regulation Isn’t Over; It’s Evolving: What Marketers Need to Know
Sourced From: www.advertisemint.com/ai-regulation-isnt-over-its-evolving/
Published Date: Sun, 23 Feb 2025 16:37:39 +0000

Jason Harris

I’m Jason, and I write for ValleyNewspaper.com!

I love to travel and enjoy doing things outdoors, like hiking or working remotely from quaint little coffee shops.

The best thing about the blog for me is the ability to discuss anything, from personal life to current events.

I enjoy spending time with my Wife, 2 boys, and my Pug, Patty. I love traveling and speaking at social media events.

If you want to know anything else, ask!