A sociable sunfish at the Kaikyokan Aquarium in Shimonoseki, Japan, was found to be suffering from health issues attributed to loneliness after the aquarium closed for renovations. To remedy the situation, staff attached photos of human faces to uniforms, providing the sunfish with a semblance of company. Following this unconventional intervention, the sunfish has shown improvement in health, swimming energetically and waving its fins.
Lonely Sunfish in Japan Finds Comfort with Cardboard Friends
Lonely Sunfish in Japan Finds Comfort with Cardboard Friends
A unique solution emerges to comfort a sunfish missing its human visitors during renovation.
The aquarium's decision was described as a "last resort" after the sunfish had stopped eating jellyfish and began displaying odd behavior such as rubbing against its tank. Initial concerns revolved around potential parasites or digestive problems, but a staff member proposed that the fish’s distress might stem from a lack of interaction with visitors. Following the introduction of its new cardboard friends, the fish reportedly felt better the next day, prompting a wave of support on social media from fans who shared memories and promised to visit when the aquarium reopens.
Beyond this latest initiative, Japanese aquariums are known for their creative approaches to animal welfare. During the COVID-19 pandemic, a Tokyo aquarium arranged video calls to engage its eels, showcasing the innovative measures taken to address loneliness among aquatic animals.
Beyond this latest initiative, Japanese aquariums are known for their creative approaches to animal welfare. During the COVID-19 pandemic, a Tokyo aquarium arranged video calls to engage its eels, showcasing the innovative measures taken to address loneliness among aquatic animals.
