city of Norfolk, Virginia also uses a mermaid as a symbol. The personal coat of arms of Michaëlle Jean, former Governor General of Canada, features two mermaids as supporters. Fandom Interest in mermaid costuming has grown with the popularity of fantasy cosplay, as well as the availability of inexpensive monofins used in the construction of these costumes. The costumes are typically designed to be used while swimming, in an activity known as mermaiding. Mermaid fandom conventions have also been held. Gallery See also Explanatory notes References Citations General and cited references Older archived version, with brief synopsis and commentary : Vol. 2 (J–Z) Jøn, A. Asbjørn, Dugongs and Mermaids, Selkies and Seals (baekur.is) google External links Becoming Mermaids—American Museum of Natural History Heraldic beasts Medieval legends Mythological human hybrids Nereids Oceanids Therianthropy Water spirits Fairy tale stock characters