By
Casandra Ronning
Published 12 minutes ago
Casandra Ronning is a staff writer for Screen Rant's anime section. Since mid-2024, she has dedicated herself to expanding her knowledge and experience in the entertainment industry. She is most proud of conducting an exclusive interview with popular voice actor Stephanie Nadolny.
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It’s not every day that a scientific discovery is inspired directly by Dragon Ball, but this newly discovered species undeniably absolutely does. Researchers have officially introduced a new species of fish named Vanderhorstia supersaiyan, instantly grabbing the attention of Dragon Ball fans around the world.
The fish was caught around 210 meters deep off Ishigaki-jima Island in Okinawa, emerging from what’s known as one of Japan’s “Twilight Zones,” a dark, little-explored area where sunlight almost doesn’t reach. Its discovery not only shows how much of our ocean remains a mystery but also demonstrates how pop culture references can add a charming touch to scientific findings.
Meet the Fish Named After Dragon Ball’s Iconic Super Saiyan Transformation
The newly discovered species directly earned its name from Dragon Ball’s most iconic transformation due to its striking features. With bright yellow lines running along its dorsal, anal, and caudal fins, creating a bold contrast against its pale body. Those bright yellow lines immediately set it apart from its relatives and make the Super Saiyan connection feel thoroughly fitting.
Despite its small size, only 77 millimeters or barely 8 centimeters long, the fish reminded scientists of Goku’s legendary Super Saiyan form and power-ups due to its seemingly golden aura with its yellow fins. The pop culture connection thus inspired the name Vanderhorstia supersaiyan, creating a rare moment where scientific discovery and anime culture collide.
While rare, this isn’t the first time anime has inspired scientific naming, and it very likely won’t be the last. The world is vast, and many regions remain underexplored, leaving countless new creatures to be discovered, and with anime’s growing influence in pop culture, it's not too far-fetched to believe there will be more critters named after anime icons.
This Isn’t the First Time Anime Has Shaped Scientific Naming
Fossil teeth from the prehistoric sawshark Pochitaserra patriciacanalae (left) and Pochita from Chainsaw Man as a sawshark (Right)Credit: CIAHN Atacama and Cotty Charuri
Vanderhorstia supersaiyan isn’t the first time scientific names have been inspired by anime. Last month, in November 2025, paleontologists in Chile discovered an ancient sawshark fossil and named it Pochitaserra patriciacanalesae, a clever nod to the Chainsaw Devil at the heart of the hit series, Chainsaw Man.
What makes this trend so fascinating is how far anime has come in a few decades. It was once considered a niche form of entertainment outside of Japan and has now grown into a cultural force that influences fashion, art, gaming, and now, scientific naming. Most impressively, these pop culture references draw in massive, global attention.
A fossil inspired by Chainsaw Man or a newly found fish inspired by Dragon Ball’s Super Saiyans immediately sparks curiosity, making the scientific discoveries feel more approachable and charming. As anime’s influence continues to expand, the world may welcome more anime-inspired species.
Dragon Ball
Created by
Akira Toriyama
First Film
Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies
Latest Film
Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero
First TV Show
Dragon Ball
Latest TV Show
Super Dragon Ball Heroes
First Episode Air Date
April 26, 1989
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Dragon Ball
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