What started as an enchanting underwater performance quickly turned into a nightmare for 22-year-old Russian performer Masha at China’s Xishuangbanna Primitive Forest Park. The young mermaid animator’s job is to gracefully swim in her swimsuit and tail for audiences to watch while enjoying the aquarium. Suddenly, she was attacked by a massive fish during her routine, leaving spectators screaming. “The peaceful scene suddenly turned terrifying when a massive fish appeared above her,” recalled one witness present. The aquarium is known for hosting native species from the Mekong and Yangtze Rivers. Apparently one of them was hungry.
The performance, consistently draws crowds eager to watch some magical underwater displays, but the massive creature zeroed in on the unsuspecting performer’s head. The incident has since sparked debate about the safety protocols at the facility, particularly concerning interaction between performers and large aquatic species.
The Attack and Aftermath
Footage was captured the moment when the giant fish crept up on the unsuspecting performer. “As Masha slowly rose toward the surface, the giant fish lunged at her and clamped its jaws around her face,” described a park official. The fish is believed to be a sturgeon, a species known to attack humans from time to time and can grow up to 20 feet long. Masha had injuries to her head, neck, and eye, and her goggles and nose clips were completely destroyed during the attack. Masha broke free in a few seconds, but the ordeal was far from over. The performer showed remarkable composure as she then swam to the surface, even as spectators watched in horror.
In case there was any doubt, medical personnel reported multiple injuries consistent with the powerful bite force of the large fish^3. Discussion of performers and large fish species being in the same tank have been stirred up, with marine biology experts weighing in on the potential risks. Local authorities have since launched an investigation into the incident, focusing on the safety measures (or lack thereof) in place at the time of the attack.
Controversy and Cover-up
Reports have emerged that Masha was forced to continue performing after the attack – despite being in considerable pain from her neck wound^3. Russian media reports, “Adding insult to injury, the park’s management allegedly attempted to suppress information about the incident, offering Masha a mere £78 in “moral damages“ while instructing her to keep quiet about the attack. The compensation (lets call it what it is, it’s hush money) offered to Masha has drawn criticism from both labor rights advocates and entertainment industry professionals worldwide.
Local authorities have indicated that they will be reviewing the facility’s operating licenses and safety certificates in light of what has happened and the subsequent handling of management after the fact^3. There is now increased scrutiny towards similar facilities in the region, with calls for standardized safety protocols and fair compensation policies to be put in place.
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