Singapore Oceanarium Unveils Beloved Axolotls and More
New Attraction Features Minecraft Sensation Alongside Ancient Marine Life
Prepare for an underwater adventure as the Singapore Oceanarium, formerly the S.E.A. Aquarium, opens its doors on July 24. Visitors can come face-to-face with the albino axolotl, a creature that has soared in popularity thanks to its virtual counterpart in the game Minecraft.
A Pop Culture Phenom and Endangered Species
This captivating amphibian, with its distinctive pink hue, wide-set eyes, and delicate, feathery gills, has captured the imagination of a new generation. Alongside the albino axolotl, a mottled brown-grey axolotl will also inhabit the exhibits, offering a chance to learn about these critically endangered salamanders native to Mexico’s lakes and wetlands.
Expanded Horizons for Marine Discovery
The Singapore Oceanarium has undergone a significant expansion, tripling its previous size after a renovation period. The new space is meticulously organized into 22 distinct zones, each designed to narrate a unique story about the ocean’s past, present, and future.
Ancient Survivors and Interactive Wonders
Among the initial zones visitors will encounter is Ocean Wonders, a vibrant habitat for sea jellies. These ancient mariners, some existing for over 500 million years, are a highlight. The aquarium boasts over 1,000 moon jellies in a massive 6.8m-diameter kreisel tank, creating a mesmerizing spectacle perfect for photographs.
The attraction also features the Conquering Land zone, home to other endangered species like the Titicaca water frog, in addition to the popular axolotls. Meanwhile, the Singapore’s Coast zone offers an immersive “intertidal walk” experience, allowing guests to explore local marine life without getting wet.
Visitors can engage with marine life by gently touching skunk cleaner shrimps, which are known to remove dead skin cells. This interactive element aims to foster a deeper connection with the underwater world. In fact, studies have shown that interactive aquarium exhibits can significantly increase visitor engagement and knowledge retention about marine conservation (Aquarium Trade 2023).
Iconic Exhibits and Prehistoric Giants
Beloved attractions from the previous aquarium, such as the expansive Open Ocean exhibit with its 36m-wide viewing panel showcasing manta rays and sharks, and the Shark Tunnel, remain key features. Additionally, the new Ancient Waters zone brings prehistoric marine giants like the Dunkleosteus to life through lifelike animatronics and replicas.
Enhance Your Visit with Digital Technology
To further enrich the visitor experience, the Singapore Oceanarium mobile app will launch on July 23, offering exclusive content and augmented and virtual reality features. Users can even come face-to-face with the imposing Dunkleosteus through the app.
Adventure and Souvenirs Await
The Pier Adventure zone offers a thrilling suspended web experience with elevated views of the Jewel of Muscat, a replica 9th-century Arabian dhow. This attraction is available for an additional fee, with specific height and age restrictions.
Exploring all 22 zones at a relaxed pace is estimated to take about three hours, so comfortable footwear is recommended. The gift shop promises a delightful end to the visit, featuring exclusive merchandise, including a collaboration with the beloved character Miffy, and of course, those sought-after axolotl plush toys.
Admission prices for Singapore residents start at $42 for adults, $35 for children aged four to 12, and $35 for seniors aged 60 and above. Additional paid experiences are available from $28.
For the latest daily activity schedules and to purchase tickets, visit singaporeoceanarium.com. The oceanarium will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
