[Hiroshima Motomachi Aquarium] Fish at the aquarium grow vegetables!? Exhibition of circular agriculture 'Aquaponics' begins.

Aquaponics is a next-generation sustainable circular agriculture that combines hydroponics and aquaculture.

It is attracting attention from the perspective of SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) as a farming method that balances environmental consideration and productivity by eliminating chemical fertilizers and saving water.

▲ Aquaponics exhibition scene

This exhibition symbolizes the aquarium's main theme, 'Stage of Life,' and is particularly suitable for the Forest Research Corner within the FOREST area, which focuses on 'discovery and learning.' By visualizing the circulation mechanism where living things support each other, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of life.

This exhibition will be installed as a new permanent exhibit and will be continuously updated, developing into a hub for environmental education. Please come and see how the living creatures and plants support each other up close.

Exhibition Overview

Start Date: June 13, 2026 (Saturday)~ Location: Forest ~Four Seasons Scene~ within the aquarium Forest Research Corner Exhibited Organisms: Japanese freshwater fish such as Nippon Baratanago, Kawamutsu, and Kanehira Cultivated Crops: Strawberries, cucumbers, etc.

Nippon Baratanago Kawamutsu Kanehira

≪About Aquaponics≫

Aquaponics is a next-generation sustainable circular agriculture that combines hydroponics and aquaculture. It is attracting attention from the perspective of SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) as a farming method that balances environmental consideration and productivity by eliminating chemical fertilizers and saving water.

By introducing this technology at an aquarium, a place where life can be experienced up close, we create a new 'learning experience' that transcends the boundaries of agriculture and fisheries. Through aquaponics, we connect to three experiences: raising, seeing, and learning about natural cycles, further deepening the theme of the FOREST area.

Furthermore, the crops grown in the exhibition will evolve through consideration of more environmentally friendly operational methods, such as 'circular initiatives to return crops as feed for exhibition animals like meerkats' and 'introduction of an owner system for visitors.'

Hiroshima Motomachi Aquarium Facility Overview

Opened on October 31, 2025, in Cledo Motomachi, Pasela 7F, central Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture, it is an experiential aquarium with the concept of 'Museum of Water and Life,' exhibiting approximately 200 species and 3,000 living creatures. Composed of eight areas, it uses stage-artistic spatial presentations with scents, sounds, light, and video to provide visitors with surprise and excitement.