In open water swimming circles, few creatures have such enduring appeal as mermaids. More often than not, these half-femme/ half-fish sea-goddesses are depicted as preternaturally young and nubile with lowing blonde or ginger hair, generous bosoms and taught tummies that give way to a gloriously finned fishy tail. Almost universally Caucasian and often sporting glorious singing voices—the better with which to lure sailors to an untimely demise—they beckon with a version of serene beauty that matches the ideals of the cultural moment in which they’re created.
But, it seems, it hasn’t always been that way for all mermaids.
THE HIDEOUS HOAX