So, let’s talk about Hippo — a truly memorable character from the beloved Japanese anime series Mermaid Melody: Pichi Pichi Pitch. Now, while most of the cast features vibrant, magical mermaids gliding through the ocean waves, Hippo definitely stands out — and for good reason. You see, Hippo isn’t a mermaid at all; he’s actually a penguin! And yet, despite being a little different in species, Hippo plays a massive role throughout the series, proving time and again that heroism comes in all shapes and sizes.

Hippo is best known as the loyal sidekick to Lucia, the main protagonist, and their dynamic is one of the show’s strongest elements. Together, they form a powerful duo, taking on the Sea Witch and her minions with courage and cleverness. But what really sets Hippo apart? Well, aside from his adorable appearance, it’s his sharp mind and technical know-how. Hippo is incredibly intelligent — seriously, you wouldn’t believe how many gadgets and machines he builds to help the mermaids in their underwater battles. Need a communication device? Hippo’s got it. Lost in the deep sea? No worries — Hippo can read a map like no other, guiding the team safely to their destination every single time.

But don’t let his brains fool you — Hippo brings the laughs too. His personality is full of energy, humor, and just the right amount of over-the-top antics that make him a fan favorite. Whenever the mood gets too intense, Hippo swoops in with his witty remarks and silly behavior, effortlessly lightening the atmosphere. It’s this perfect balance of brains and comedy that makes Hippo such a well-rounded and essential character in Mermaid Melody: Pichi Pichi Pitch. Honestly, the show wouldn’t be the same without him.

Now, if we dive a bit deeper into Hippo’s personality, there’s a strong case to be made that he fits the ESFJ personality type. For those familiar with MBTI, ESFJs are typically supportive, responsible, and deeply committed to helping others — which sounds exactly like our guy Hippo. He’s always there for Lucia and the other mermaids, offering both emotional support and practical solutions. He takes his duties seriously, especially when it comes to protecting Lucia, showing just how responsible and dependable he truly is.

What’s more, Hippo has a clear preference for order and structure. He’s the kind of character who follows rules meticulously, even when others might find them unnecessary. Whether it’s double-checking a plan or insisting on proper protocol, Hippo’s attention to detail reflects the classic ESFJ trait of valuing tradition and organization. Sure, it might seem a little rigid at times, but it’s also what makes him so reliable in high-pressure situations.

And when we look at Hippo through the lens of the Enneagram, things get even more interesting. He appears to be a Type Two with a One wing — commonly referred to as a 2w1. This means that while Hippo is naturally inclined to help and care for others (the core of Type Two), he also carries the moral integrity and sense of duty characteristic of Type One. In other words, Hippo doesn’t just want to help — he wants to do it the right way, in line with his values. That’s why he’s always striving to be seen as trustworthy and dependable.

Of course, this also comes with some internal challenges. Being a 2w1 often means being overly self-critical and struggling to express personal needs. Hippo may pour all his energy into supporting Lucia and the team, sometimes forgetting to take care of himself. But that only adds depth to his character, making him not just entertaining, but genuinely relatable.

All in all, Hippo is much more than just a comic relief penguin. He’s intelligent, loyal, principled, and absolutely vital to the world of Mermaid Melody: Pichi Pichi Pitch. Whether he’s building a new invention, cracking a joke, or standing by Lucia’s side, Hippo proves that even the smallest characters can have the biggest impact. And honestly? We wouldn’t want the series any other way.