Aquarium Mauritius

The aquarium of Mauritius is found in the north of the island at Pointe aux Piments. It is opened everyday from 9.30 to 17.00 and from 10.00 to 15.00 on Sundays and public holidays. The aquarium harbours a vast diversity (more than 200 species) of marine organisms ranging from clown fishes to sponges. It is divided into 5 main rooms where numerous tanks containing different marine species are displayed. In order to allow the visitor to know more about the species, near each tank, brief information on the marine species is listed on banners. Also, showcased at the aquarium are different species of dead corals as well as brief descriptions. Many of the specimens exposed in the tanks require deep diving to be observed in their natural habitats; presenting them in tanks on land itself is indeed an opportunity to enjoy the deep life. Many organisms have adapted to live in their environments in order to reduce their chances of being preyed upon; one such adaptation is camouflage, where the organisms blend harmoniously into their environment. The stone fish reflects this case perfectly: nestled between corals of dirty green, the tank where it is found can be taken to contain only corals at first sight, but on further observation a slight movement reveals it to be a live fish! The biggest tank however is the Big Blue which is more of a swimming pool than a tank. It measures more than 15 metres long and offers a splendid view of marine life. Creatures of all sorts can be seen in there: fishes of varying colours and sizes, eels, sharks, giant tortoises. The purpose of this tank is to mimic marine life as it is underwater thus allowing people to enjoy this wonderful ecosystem as well as understand it. Outside in the garden of the aquarium, there is a small pool where children can enjoy direct contact with the marine organisms such as throwing bits of bread/biscuits into the water and watching the fish gather around in hordes and trying to touch them as they come by. There is also a souvenir shop where people can buy things to remind them of the place such as postcards, bracelets, small purses. And if you are in for a thrill, be at the aquarium at 11.ooam which is the feeding hour and watch the sharks gulp down their food!