Attuma was born into the tribe of
Homo mermanus who eschewed civilization to live as nomadic barbarians. For some unrecorded reason, Attuma was endowed with strength far surpassing that of his people. Nearing adulthood, Attuma learned of a prophesy, in the lost
Atlantean Chronicles, of a conqueror who would take the empire of
Atlantis by force. Believing he is that conqueror, Attuma has launched numerous attacks on the city of Atlantis and its regent Namor the
Sub-Mariner.
Unable to best Namor in personal combat, Attuma has frequently taken allies to further his ambitions. These alliances have also met with defeat. The first time Attuma attacked Atlantis, the
Fantastic Four aided Namor in repulsing his attack. In recent years, Attuma has battled the
Avengers as well. Not renowned for his intelligence, Attuma has frequently employed renegade
Atlantean and human scientists. One of them created the
Octo-Meks, octopus-shaped fighting machines. Another proposed that he mate with human mutants in order to produce a sire stronger than Namor himself. Toward this end he abducted the mutant
Phoenix, but she thwarted his plans. Although Attuma has never been able to claim a lasting victor over Namor, he was a party to the death of Namor's bride, Lady
Dorma. Attuma is still at large in the Atlantic Ocean, having never been imprisoned for any of his deeds.