Introduction
Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is the only aquarium in the world with a dedicated China Zone showcasing endemic aquatic species of China. Most of the species exhibited are nationally protected animals, including the Chinese sturgeon, Chinese sucker fish, Yangtze alligator, Chinese giant salamander, and Percocypris pingi (Jinsha carp).
Introduction
South America boasts the world's richest freshwater fish resources. The arapaima, one of the largest scaled bony freshwater fish species on Earth, thrives in these waters. Walk through the Amazon River tunnel, and you will get an up-close encounter with this winding, mystical river snaking through tropical rainforests, experiencing the unique allure of South America's freshwater ecosystems.
Introduction
Australia has relatively few freshwater fish species, yet many are uniquely found nowhere else in the world. This distinctiveness is the result of the continent’s long geographic isolation, which has limited species exchange and allowed its aquatic life to evolve independently over millions of years.
Introduction
Africa is home to some of the world’s most remarkable freshwater systems, including the Nile River, the Congo River, and the Great Lakes of the East African Rift Valley. Among these, Lakes Victoria, Tanganyika, and Malawi are especially renowned for their extraordinary diversity of cichlids. Formed approximately 500,000 to 2 million years ago, these lakes have driven rapid evolutionary diversification, resulting in one of the richest concentrations of freshwater fish species on Earth.
Introduction
Southeast Asia’s tropical rainforests are among the oldest on Earth, characterized by dense forest coverage, dramatic landscapes, and exceptional biodiversity. These rich ecosystems provide abundant food sources and ideal habitats, supporting a wide variety of unique freshwater species.
Introduction
Within the semi-arc acrylic tunnel, visitors can enjoy close-up views of the spotted seals. If they are not immediately visible in the water, live video feeds may reveal them resting or playfully lounging on their swings behind the scenes.
Introduction
Amid the sound of howling winds, penguins await your arrival, dressed in their signature “tuxedo” plumage. As they waddle gracefully through the chilly environment, their charming movements bring warmth and delight to this icy world.
Introduction
A vibrant showcase of marine biodiversity, this zone highlights the remarkable diversity of forms, colours, and behaviours found in coastal ecosystems.
Introduction
This zone features a spectacular 155-meter underwater tunnel, offering an immersive journey through the open ocean environment. As you walk through, you will be surrounded by a diverse array of marine life, creating the sensation of being beneath the sea.
Introduction
Special exhibitions are presented year-round offering focused insights into specific themes and species.
Humans were once merely a part of the natural food chain, but through technological advancement and large-scale organization, have become dominant apex predators. Today, marine biologists warn that sharks—once the ocean’s top predators—may be among the first marine species pushed toward endangerment due to human activities.
The Yangtze River, China’s longest river, is not only a vital lifeline for human civilization but also a cradle of biodiversity. Its basin supports more than half of China’s aquatic species, including over 300 species of fish.
Humans were once merely a part of the natural food chain, but through technological advancement and large-scale organization, have become dominant apex predators. Today, marine biologists warn that sharks—once the ocean’s top predators—may be among the first marine species pushed toward endangerment due to human activities.
The Yangtze River, China’s longest river, is not only a vital lifeline for human civilization but also a cradle of biodiversity. Its basin supports more than half of China’s aquatic species, including over 300 species of fish.
Cownose Ray
Sand Tiger Shark
Green Sea Turtle
Pot-bellied Seahorse
Flashlight Fish
Pacific Sea Nettles
Pacific Sea Nettles inhabit the temperate waters of the North Pacific. They feature a stunning golden-brown bell and slender tentacles up to several meters long, so they're also called "Pacific Golden Jellyfish." Their mild sting is generally harmless to humans. Their Latin name "Chrysaor" comes from Chrysaor, Medusa's son—legend says he was born clutching a golden sword in his hand.
Magellanic Penguin
Spotted Seal
Glass Catfish
Asian Arowana
Chitala (Featherback Fish)
Zebra Tilapia
African Cichlids
African Lungfish
Pig-nosed Turtle
Largetooth Sawfish
Rainbowfish
Arapaima
Electric Eel
South American Lungfish
Chinese Sturgeon
Yangtze Alligator
Chinese Giant Salamander
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