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Shanghai Ocean Aquarium (“SOA”)

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South America
Introduction
South America boasts the world's richest freshwater fish resources. The arapaima, one of the largest scaled bony freshwater fish species on Earth, thrives in these waters. Walk through the Amazon River tunnel, and you will get an up-close encounter with this winding, mystical river snaking through tropical rainforests, experiencing the unique allure of South America's freshwater ecosystems.


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Arapaima

Arapaima

Also known as pirarucu, the arapaima is one of the largest scaled freshwater fish in the world, reaching lengths of over 2.5 meters. Its body is grey-green with distinctive red markings along the tail. It breathes air using a highly vascularized swim bladder and regularly surfaces to take in oxygen. Found in shallow lakes and river channels, it is a powerful predator and is often regarded as a “living fossil,” making it significant for scientific study.

Electric Eel

The electric eel is a freshwater fish that can grow up to 2.5 meters in length. Despite its name, it is not a true eel but is more closely related to catfish. It primarily feeds on small fish and can generate electric discharges of up to 600–800 volts for hunting, defence, and navigation. Specialized fat and tissue structures insulate its body, protecting it from its own electric shocks.
Electric Eel
Electric Eel

South American Lungfish

Native to the Amazon, Paraguay, and lower Paraná River basins, the South American lungfish can grow up to 1.25 meters in length. It is a fully air-breathing fish, relying on lung-like organs for respiration. Adults feed on aquatic invertebrates, algae, and small crustaceans. During dry seasons, it burrows into the mud and enters a dormant state to survive until water conditions improve.
South American Lungfish
Highlights
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Recent Activities
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Where Are the Mini Sharks? Special Marine Science Program, Dive Into the Enchanting World of Miniature Sharks with Us!

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Exclusive Annual Member Activities | Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

Exclusive Annual Member Activities | Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

Join our Ocean Friends Club with an annual pass! Enjoy unlimited year-round access to the aquarium. We also bring you a wealth of exclusive perks and customized member-only events. Delight in one-of-a-kind premium experiences, and make new friends who share the same passion for marine life.
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Immersively Unlocking the Mysteries of China's Aquatic Life

The Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is currently the world’s only aquarium with a dedicated China exhibition zone that showcases themed displays of aquatic organisms and ecosystems in the Yangtze River Basin. Come and immersively unlock the mysteries of China's native aquatic life.
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