Vivarium Zones

Overview

The Vivarium Zones within Aquatis Aquarium-Vivarium in Lausanne, Switzerland, represent a captivating journey through the freshwater ecosystems of five continents. As Europe's largest freshwater aquarium-vivarium, Aquatis offers a unique experience where visitors can explore a diverse array of aquatic and terrestrial life. The vivarium sections seamlessly integrate into the overall narrative, showcasing over 100 reptiles and amphibians among the 10,000 fish and 300 plant species housed across 46 displays. This innovative facility aims to immerse visitors in the wonders of freshwater environments, highlighting their fragility and the importance of conservation.

The immersive experience at Aquatis spans over 3,500 square meters, guiding guests through 20 distinct ecosystems from Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania, and South America. These zones are designed to recreate natural habitats, providing a close-up view of creatures like Komodo dragons, crocodiles, various snakes, and colorful frogs. It's a place where education meets entertainment, encouraging a deeper understanding of our planet's aquatic biodiversity.

History & Cultural Background

The vision for Aquatis Aquarium-Vivarium began to materialize in the early 2000s, born from city planners' ambitions in Lausanne, Switzerland. Initially conceived as an attraction atop a new metro line's park-and-ride facility, the project evolved into an expansive freshwater aquarium-vivarium. The plans were approved in 2005, and a significant development occurred in late 2013 when the collections from the former Vivarium de Lausanne were integrated into the future Aquatis complex. This integration allowed for the seamless transfer of numerous reptiles and amphibians, ensuring their continued care and public display within a state-of-the-art facility.

Aquatis officially opened its doors in autumn 2017, establishing itself as Switzerland's first freshwater aquarium-vivarium. Lausanne, a city with a rich history in limnology—the scientific study of continental waters—provided a fitting backdrop for such a pioneering institution. The Aquatis Foundation actively collaborates with scientific partners and research organizations, reinforcing its mission to promote environmental education and sustainable development, making it a significant center of scientific culture in Switzerland.

What Makes It Special

What sets the Vivarium Zones at Aquatis apart is their integral role in a global freshwater journey. Unlike traditional vivariums, these zones are not isolated but are woven into a narrative that explores river systems and aquatic habitats across five continents. Visitors encounter a remarkable diversity of animals, including the formidable Komodo dragons, African and Asian crocodiles, and a striking collection of snakes and amphibians.

A highlight is the 533-square-meter Tropical Hall, which transports visitors into a recreated Amazon landscape. This humid, warm environment is home to tropical plants, frogs, turtles, and caimans, complemented by digital animations that explain the rainforest ecosystem. Furthermore, Aquatis includes a breeding station, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how young animals are cared for and raised, emphasizing conservation efforts for endangered species like the Komodo dragon and European pond turtle.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The architectural design of Aquatis itself tells a story. The exterior of the aquarium, covered in 100,000 anodized aluminum discs, shimmers with the wind, mimicking the scales of a fish moving through water. This dynamic facade creates a constantly changing artwork, visible even from a distance. Inside, the journey is thoughtfully designed to simulate the life cycle of a drop of water as it travels around the world.

A memorable moment for many visitors is the 'Evolution' exhibit, featuring a Spinosaurus rising from an underwater canyon in the staircase connecting the two floors. This striking display serves as a reminder that life originated in water. Aquatis also demonstrates a strong commitment to ethical animal care, adhering to the standards of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) and the European Association of Zoos and Aquariums (EAZA) for managing species populations and breeding programs.

Visitor Perspective

Visiting the Vivarium Zones within Aquatis is an immersive and educational experience for all ages. The exhibits feature interactive screens providing detailed explanations about the animals in multiple languages, including English, French, and German. The layout is stroller-friendly, with many tanks accessible to younger children through low-level viewing points or stools.

The facility is praised for its clean environment and the ability for visitors to observe animals closely, with numerous seating areas available. The blend of cutting-edge digital technology with natural habitats creates a truly engaging atmosphere, making learning about freshwater ecosystems both exciting and enlightening. Whether observing the elusive river giants or the vibrant amphibians, Aquatis provides a memorable adventure that encourages reflection on our relationship with nature.