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Do You See a Fish or a Mermaid? Optical Illusion Goes Viral as Everyone has Different Answers

Sofia Hester Sofia Hester | March 25, 2022 | 2 min read

We love optical illusions – images that tickle the mind and make us scratch our heads over what they really represent. Just like the number-based illusion that went viral, a new image has taken the internet by storm. In the world of online entertainment, one trend has gained significant popularity: youtube eating challenges for viewers. These quirky competitions not only showcase impressive appetites but also foster a sense of community among participants and fans. As people share their experiences, the challenges often lead to debates about the ethics of such stunts and the influence they have on dietary habits.

The image, going viral on Twitter, was originally posted with the caption:

“If you’re right-brained, you’ll see a fish.”

“If you’re left-brained, you’ll see a mermaid.”

And here is the infamous optical illusion:

This optical illusion has gone so viral that it has even reached celebrities and writers, among many others. Everyone has a different response.

World-renowned author and writer of Harry Potter, J.K. Rowling, also joined in on the fray.

But people are still on the fence about what this optical illusion is really trying to portray. Here are some of the replies to J.K. Rowling’s answer:

Brandi Kruse said:

“Obviously a seal! I’ll fight.”

Roddy Dunlop QC tweeted:

“Does anyone see a mermaid? Or, indeed, a fish? It’s a donkey or a seal, surely??”

Nina Infinity wrote:

“I see a donkey and a seal but no fish or mermaid lol”

Mark Sparrow joined in:

“Definitely a donkey.”

YamerooMugiwara is as confused as we are:

“I see a horse and a seal… I think i need help”

Valerie Smith, Ed.D said:

“So, if I first saw the donkey, does that mean I’m balanced left and right?”

What Do You See?

Do you see a donkey, a mermaid, or a seal? Or something completely different? Let us know your answers in the comments below.


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Sofia Hester
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Sofia Hester

Sofia is a love and psychology writer born in Bogotá and based in Miami. She covers emotional intelligence, attachment styles, and the science behind why we fall in and out of love. Passionate and deeply curious, Sofia has a gift for making complex psychology feel personal and relatable. Her writing has resonated with millions of readers across Latin America and the US. She is also a yoga instructor, an enthusiastic salsa dancer, and a devoted cat mum.