Aquarium Vivarium

Overview

Nestled within the venerable Basel Zoo in Basel, Switzerland, lies the Aquarium Vivarium, a captivating world dedicated to aquatic and amphibious life. Affectionately known as the 'Zolli' by locals, Basel Zoo, established in 1874, is Switzerland's oldest and largest zoological garden. The Vivarium, which officially opened its doors in 1972, serves as a remarkable microcosm of the larger zoo's mission, presenting a diverse array of fish, amphibians, reptiles, and even penguins.

Visitors embark on a journey across two floors, guided by a winding pathway that showcases a vast collection of marine and freshwater ecosystems. Housing both expansive aquariums and intricate terrariums, the Vivarium invites curious travellers to explore the incredible biodiversity found in habitats ranging from tropical seas to local wetlands.

History & Cultural Background

Basel Zoo itself boasts a rich history, founded on July 3, 1874, by the Ornithological Society of Basel with the intention of introducing the urban populace to the local fauna. Over time, public interest spurred a shift from predominantly local species to a broader array of exotic animals from around the globe. The nickname 'Zolli' quickly became entrenched in local parlance, reflecting the zoo's integration into the city's cultural fabric.

The Aquarium Vivarium, a later addition, represents a significant evolution in zoological exhibit design. Its construction between 1966 and 1969 was lauded internationally for its innovative architectural approach. The building's design prioritised animal welfare and an immersive visitor experience, moving away from older, more static zoo layouts. While Basel Zoo, like many institutions of its era, historically hosted 'Völkerschauen' (human exhibitions), a practice that is now recognised as deeply problematic, its contemporary focus is firmly on conservation, education, and research, embodying a modern scientific approach to wildlife preservation.

What Makes It Special

The Aquarium Vivarium is distinguished by its incredible diversity of life, featuring a meticulously curated collection of fish, amphibians, and reptiles from a vast array of habitats. It serves as a vital centre for understanding and preserving many thousands of life forms, acting as ambassadors for their wild counterparts. Over the years, the Vivarium has celebrated numerous breeding successes, including lungfish bichir offspring, repeated king penguin hatches, and even sea anemones. Breeding programs extend to species like rhinoceros ratsnakes, which have successfully reproduced within the Vivarium.

Architecturally, the Vivarium is a marvel. Its design incorporates a 350-meter pathway winding through 45 aquariums and 19 terrariums, creating a sense of continuous discovery. A significant portion of the building's technical infrastructure and animal care areas are cleverly hidden from public view, with only one-third of the structure above ground. This design philosophy allows visitors to focus entirely on the animals, fostering a deep connection with the presented ecosystems. The Vivarium's colourful reef aquariums are particularly notable, with approximately 90% of the corals being bred in-house, demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainable practices and conservation efforts to raise awareness about threatened coral reef habitats.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

One of the most beloved local traditions at the Vivarium takes place during the colder winter months: the charming penguin walk. When temperatures drop below 10 degrees Celsius, the gentoo and king penguins have access to an outdoor area and can be observed waddling from the Vivarium for their daily stroll. Keepers in the Vivarium go to great lengths to ensure the well-being of their charges, preparing special menus for the fish that can include delicacies such as oysters, razor clams, or cod fillets.

Behind the scenes, the dedication to animal care is extensive, with sophisticated technology ensuring optimal water quality and dedicated keepers and vets on hand. Visitors can also witness feedings in the Vivarium on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays between 3 PM and 4 PM, offering a glimpse into the daily routines. The Vivarium also houses fascinating creatures like poison dart frogs, known for their vibrant colours and unique reproductive methods where males transport tadpoles on their backs, and the distinctive rhinoceros ratsnakes with their flexible nasal protrusions.

Visitor Perspective

For any curious traveller, the Aquarium Vivarium offers an engaging journey, often described as 'a trip around the world' through its diverse aquatic and terrestrial exhibits. The thoughtful design encourages visitors to pause, observe, and discover, rather than simply passing through. As an indoor attraction, the Vivarium provides an excellent option for exploration regardless of the weather, making Basel Zoo a year-round destination. Its educational programs aim to inspire interest in nature and raise awareness about biodiversity and conservation, reflecting the zoo's broader commitment to its role as a scientific and educational institution.