Many heartwarming friendships have been documented between humans and animals, both domestic and wild. Pets are known for their adorability, friendliness, and affection, while wild animals are often grateful for humans who treat them with care and kindness. When treated well, animals can sense the love and affection given to them and often reciprocate, creating a special bond between human and animal that grows naturally over time.
But when it comes to the friendship of a man and a fish, especially one that lasts for a long time, it may seem surprising to some people. Many people may think that it’s unlikely or unreal, as if it only happens in fairy tales. However, if such a bond does exist, it could be one of the most incredible things on the planet.
And it happens in reality, folks. A diver from Japan has become friends with an Asian sheepshead wrasse fish that has a friendly disposition for 25 years.
During his job, Hiroyuki Arakawa (the diver’s name) met the fish that he affectionately named Yoriko.
The man was tasked with overseeing a sacred Shinto shrine called a ‘torii’, which was located underwater in Japan’s Tateyama Bay. To carry out his duties, Arakawa had to dive into the shrine frequently and explore the marine creatures that inhabited it. After about a decade of doing this work, he met Yoriko, a friendly Asian sheepshead wrasse, and the two formed a beautiful friendship that has lasted for 25 years.
Each time they reunite, Yoriko greets her human friend with a big kiss, which is the loveliest way to show how much she loves and misses him.
Their heartwarming encounter was captured on video and shared on social media, quickly going viral as people were amazed by the fish’s ability to recognize and remember her human friend.
A recent study conducted by scientists at Oxford University provides evidence that fish are capable of recognizing up to 86% of human faces. This heartening discovery is a reminder that positive relationships can be formed between humans and animals.
