With films such as The Little Mermaid, Aquaman, and Siren raking in millions of views from across the world, it’s expected for some people to believe in the existence of mermaids. However, even before these movies and the popularity of mermaid performers like Catalina and Katrin Gray, ancient civilizations like the Egyptians also thought that mermaids were real. So, where does this obsession with the supposed sea creatures come from? Could they be real? After all, we’ve only explored 5% of the ocean. Let’s find out!
Do Mermaids Exist?
You are not the only one who has ever questioned the existence of mermaids. Various bodies worldwide have engaged in thorough research, but there hasn’t been any conclusive evidence. The United States National Ocean Service, a department of the US government, clearly states on its website that no evidence of aquatic humanoids, aka mermaids, has ever been found. Therefore, there are no half-human wand half-fish creatures on this continent.
What about the Reports on Mermaid Sightings?
Over the years, there have been numerous reports about mermaid sightings. Some have even captured and posted pictures of these so-called mermaids on social media. However, most or nearly all these sightings have been dismissed as false and attention-seeking practices.
Sightings of mermaids date back to the 15th century when Christopher Columbus spotted a manatee when discovering the Americas. In the 18th century, the infamous Captain Blackbeard wrote about mermaid encounters and would avoid waters associated with mermaid sightings. Moving on to the era of World War II, several Japanese soldiers testified to seeing man-fish-like creatures on the Kai Islands.
The Origin of the Mermaid Myth
Human beings’ obsession with mermaids goes way back, making it harder to trace the origins of this myth. According to the book Merpeople: A Human History by Vaughn Scribner, mermaids originated from ancient gods and goddesses of the sea. This is evident with reference to the Babylonian fish-god Oannes and the female version Artagatis, who was worshipped by the Assyrians and Philistines.
Ancient Greeks and Romans borrowed the mentioned beliefs, leading to the creation of Scylla, which were half-women and half-fish creatures and were popular for their siren songs. Through the Ancient Greeks, the culture of mermaids spread to other civilizations. For instance, in Japan, they believe in a creature that’s both fish and man called Ningyo. In Ireland and Scotland, mermaids are referred to as Selkies.
The other reason people believe in mermaids is because there are a few sea creatures who resemble them; a good example is the manatee. This sea cow grazes the grass on the sea bed and frequently comes up to the surface for air. They have heads that look like those of human beings and turn like humans do – it’s the animal that Christopher Columbus mistook for a siren or mermaid.
In his writings, Columbus says that the mermaids weren’t as beautiful as in paintings. Another version of the manatee, the Dugong, also resembles a mermaid. Some people have also mistaken seals for mermaids.
Aquatic Ape Theory and Other Stories
The myth about mermaids becomes more interesting when you consider the fact that fish and humans are distant cousins. According to scientists, fish were the first animals to have a backbone. As such, all animals with a backbone, including humans, originated from fish.
Those who believe in mermaids have associated the above origin story of humankind with the aquatic ape theory. It states that food was scarce at one point in the evolution of primates, and some members had to hunt in the water. As a result, primates got the ability to hold their breath for longer in water and shed most of their hair to swim faster.
According to this theory, a group of primates continued adapting to this lifestyle and turned into fish. It is, however, not a viable theory because no such creatures have been discovered throughout history.
So, Why Are Mermaids Popular Yet They Aren’t Real?
Irrespective of the close connection between fish and human beings, mermaids do not exist. However, with all that in mind, why do people strongly believe in these mythical creatures? Aquariums today are shifting from displaying fish to showcasing mermaid performers, offering a very lucrative career for performers who can hold their breath for a long time.
All said, it is understandable that some people believe mermaids exist. Human beings have a thirst for believing in the unknown. Because the ocean is vast and yet to be explored, most people assume that there are other forms of life down there, which may include mermaids. Also, the thought of a creature that’s half fish and half human seems quite exhilarating.