UC San Diego's mascot is King Triton

The University of California, San Diego (UC San Diego), has a unique mascot named King Triton. This mascot represents the school's athletic teams and serves to inspire fans. King Triton is depicted as a powerful figure from Greek mythology. He is the son of Poseidon and Amphitrite, known as a demigod of the sea. The mascot is shown wearing a gold crown and a full white beard, and although Triton is usually half-fish, the mascot has legs to help move around easily. The choice of Triton as a mascot connects to UC San Diego's coastal location. The university, established in 1960, chose this name in 1964, drawing inspiration from its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and the nearby Scripps Institution of Oceanography. The name Triton is not directly linked to the character from "The Little Mermaid." Instead, it reflects the rich oceanic mythology, highlighting the university's connection to marine sciences and its environment.