In an innovative move, the Kaikyokan Aquarium in Shimonoseki, Japan, has found an ingenious way to uplift the spirits of its sunfish during a period of renovation. The aquarium's staff discovered that the fish's well-being was closely tied to the presence of visitors, leading them to implement a unique solution that has garnered international attention.

Elevating Animal Welfare with Ingenious Solutions

The Challenge of Renovation

The Kaikyokan Aquarium faced a significant challenge when it closed for renovations in December 2024. One of its most popular residents, a sunfish, began exhibiting signs of distress. Initially, the staff suspected health issues such as digestive problems or parasites. However, after exploring various possibilities, they realized that the absence of visitors might be the root cause. This realization prompted an unconventional yet heartwarming solution.The sunfish had always been curious and interactive, often swimming close to the glass when visitors were around. With the sudden disappearance of human presence, the fish appeared disoriented and unwell. Staff members observed that the sunfish stopped eating its jellyfish meals and started rubbing against the tank walls. Concerned about its well-being, they brainstormed ways to recreate the comforting environment the fish was accustomed to.

A Creative Solution Emerges

Inspired by the idea that the sunfish might be feeling lonely, the aquarium staff decided to simulate the presence of visitors. They crafted cardboard cutouts of people and attached them to the aquarium glass. To add authenticity, they used staff uniforms beneath the faces, creating a lifelike scene. The transformation was immediate and remarkable. The next day, the sunfish showed visible improvement. It resumed its normal behavior, swimming gracefully and even waving its fins in what seemed like a gesture of contentment.This creative approach not only restored the sunfish's health but also highlighted the importance of mental well-being in marine life. The staff at Kaikyokan Aquarium demonstrated that sometimes, the simplest solutions can yield the most profound results. Their efforts have set a new standard for animal care in aquariums worldwide.

Aquarium Innovations Beyond Borders

The success of this initiative at Kaikyokan Aquarium is not isolated. Other institutions in Japan have also embraced innovative methods to maintain the happiness of their aquatic inhabitants. For instance, Tokyo’s Sumida Aquarium introduced a program during the 2020 pandemic lockdown where volunteers used FaceTime to engage with 300 spotted garden eels, encouraging them to emerge from their hiding places. These examples underscore the growing recognition of the emotional needs of marine animals and the lengths to which aquariums will go to ensure their welfare.

Conservation and Awareness

Sunfish, scientifically known as Mola mola, are fascinating creatures that exhibit both curiosity and vulnerability. According to National Geographic, these harmless giants are prone to getting entangled in drift gill nets, leading to their classification as vulnerable species. The efforts of aquariums like Kaikyokan play a crucial role in raising awareness about the conservation challenges faced by sunfish and other marine life. By showcasing the impact of human interaction on these animals, aquariums can inspire greater public engagement in marine conservation efforts.

A Brighter Future for Marine Life

As the Kaikyokan Aquarium prepares to reopen its renovated facilities in summer 2025, the story of the sunfish serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness between humans and marine ecosystems. The innovative solutions implemented by the staff highlight the potential for positive change through creativity and compassion. Moving forward, this experience may influence how aquariums worldwide approach the care and well-being of their aquatic residents, fostering a future where both animals and humans thrive together.