Achelous

Achelous, also known as Acheloios, is a figure from Greek mythology. He was the god of the Achelous River, the largest river in Greece. According to myth, Achelous was the son of the Titans Oceanus and Tethys. He was known for his ability to change shape and was often depicted as a bull.

One of the most famous myths involving Achelous is his wrestling match with Heracles (Hercules). Achelous transformed into a bull to compete for the love of the nymph Deianeira, but Heracles managed to tear off one of his horns. Achelous then traded the horn of Amalthea to get it back, and Heracles gave it to the Naiads, who transformed it into the cornucopia, a symbol of abundance.

Achelous was also considered the father of several notable figures, including the Sirens and various nymphs associated with famous springs. His name is possibly pre-Greek in origin, with some suggesting it has Semitic roots.