Kaldur'ahm

Kaldur'ahm, also known as Jackson Hyde, is a superhero appearing in both media published by DC Entertainment and American comic books published by DC Comics. While the character was created by Brandon Vietti, Greg Weisman and Phil Bourassa for the television series Young Justice, and voiced by Khary Payton, the comic book version debuted earlier in Brightest Day #1 (August 2010). While intended to be incarnations of the same character and possess various similarities, such as sharing the Aqualad and Aquaman codename and are the biological son of Black Manta, their histories and background differs.

The animated version's name is based upon Cal Durham, a henchmen and right-hand assistant of Black Manta in comics. Within the television series, Kaldur'ahm is the son of villain Black Manta and Atlantean Sha'lain'a, raised by the latter alongside his adoptive father Cal Durham, who settled into Atlantis sometime after abandoning a infiltration mission and genetically altering himself with Atlantean attributes. Known for his often mature and responsible personality growing up, he eventually became Aquaman's protege after defeating Ocean Master with the help of Garth with their skills in sorcery. Over time, as a member of the Team, he rises as a skilled and measured team leader before eventually adopting the Aquaman codename and is designated as chairman of the Justice League.

While originally developed for television, DC quickly adapted Kaldur'ahm to its mainstream comic books, with Geoff Johns and Ivan Reis re-interpreting the character. Due to the animated version's direction for the character establishing him as a familiar partner whereas the comic book version featured his introduction to Aquaman and readers the same time, aspects of the character were changed; born Jackson Hyde, the comic book version is the son of Black Manta and Lucia, the latter having ties to Xebel. Lucia raised Jackson in New Mexico, with her efforts to hide his heritage and limit his social life having a negative impact on him. Upon discovering his hydrokinetic powers and desiring a independent life, he joined the Teen Titans and adopts the Aqualad moniker from Garth's blessing and suggestion. When he eventually learns of his true origins, he makes amends with his mother. Later, he officially partners with Aquaman, whom mentors him with Lucia's support, eventually adopting the Aquaman monikers as he and Arthur work concurrently.