Black Manta

DC

Black Manta, primarily known as the archenemy of Aquaman, is a ruthless mercenary and undersea terrorist. His real name is often debated, sometimes identified as David Hyde, but often kept deliberately ambiguous.

Driven by a deep-seated hatred for Aquaman, the origins of this animosity vary across different iterations of DC Comics. Common themes involve perceived slights, tragic accidents, or Manta holding Aquaman responsible for incidents he believes caused him harm.

Typically, Black Manta is depicted as a highly skilled combatant, both on land and underwater. He utilizes advanced technology, most notably his signature battlesuit, which allows him to breathe underwater, withstand immense pressure, and fire energy beams from its helmet. He frequently leads his own forces in attacks against Atlantis and other marine targets.

While his motivations and history can differ, Black Manta consistently embodies a relentless and calculating villain dedicated to Aquaman's destruction. He often appears in animated series, films, and video games, cementing his status as a prominent antagonist in the DC Universe.