A Russian mermaid performer, Mariia Zelenina, known professionally as “Masha,” recently recounted the harrowing experience of being attacked by a large sturgeon while performing in an aquatic show at China’s Xishuangbanna Primitive Forest Park. The incident, captured on video, quickly went viral, sparking widespread concern and speculation. This article delves into the details of the attack, Zelenina’s recovery, and addresses the misinformation surrounding the event.
The Unexpected Attack: A Mermaid’s Tale of Survival
On January 28th, 2025, during a routine performance, Zelenina’s underwater world transformed into a scene of terror. As she neared the end of her solo act, preparing to surface, a Chinese sturgeon, a critically endangered species that can grow up to 16 feet long, suddenly lunged at her, engulfing her head in its mouth.
“I didn’t understand what was happening,” Zelenina recounted to PEOPLE magazine. “I began to push her away and get out of her mouth. When I surfaced, I realized that I didn’t have glasses.”
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The shocking video footage shows Zelenina struggling to free herself from the sturgeon’s grip, her goggles dislodged in the chaos. Onlookers watched in horror as the terrifying scene unfolded before them. Despite the traumatic experience, Zelenina remarkably emerged from the encounter with only bruises and a missing pair of goggles.
Addressing the Aftermath and Misinformation
Following the attack, Zelenina was immediately taken to a hospital for treatment. Contrary to some reports circulating online, she was not forced to return to work prematurely. “I’m resting now because my eye still hurts and I can’t come into contact with water,” she clarified. Zelenina emphasized that she would return to her mermaid performances once fully recovered.
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Furthermore, Zelenina refuted claims that she was threatened by her superiors to downplay the incident. While acknowledging their desire to avoid negative publicity, she maintained that they were ultimately supportive. Zelenina also expressed her positive experience living and working in China, stating that foreigners are treated well.
The Chinese Sturgeon: A Closer Look at the Culprit
The Chinese sturgeon, responsible for the attack, is an ancient and critically endangered species native to the Yangtze River and surrounding marine waters. These fish, known for their massive size and bony plates, are bottom feeders, primarily consuming invertebrates and small fish. While not typically aggressive towards humans, their powerful jaws and suction-feeding mechanism can pose a significant threat if provoked or startled.
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The incident raises questions about the safety protocols in place for performers interacting with large aquatic animals. While the exact circumstances leading to the attack remain unclear, it highlights the inherent risks associated with such close encounters.
A Resilient Spirit: Zelenina’s Positive Outlook
Despite the terrifying ordeal, Zelenina has maintained a remarkably positive attitude. “It was unexpected. Of course, I was scared, but a lot of things can happen in life and you need to treat it with humor,” she shared. Her resilience and ability to find humor in the face of adversity are truly inspiring. The incident serves as a testament to the unpredictable nature of working with wildlife and the importance of respecting these magnificent creatures.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Sturgeon Attack
Q: What kind of fish attacked the mermaid performer?
A: The fish was a Chinese Sturgeon, a critically endangered species found in the Yangtze River and surrounding waters.
Q: Was the mermaid performer seriously injured?
A: Fortunately, she sustained only bruises and lost her goggles. She is currently recovering well.
Q: Was the performer forced to return to work after the attack?
A: No, she was not. She is currently resting and will return to performing when fully recovered.
Q: Are Chinese Sturgeons known to be aggressive?
A: While not typically aggressive towards humans, they are large and powerful creatures capable of inflicting injury if startled or provoked.
Q: Where did the attack take place?
A: The incident occurred at Xishuangbanna Primitive Forest Park in China.
