Innovative Solution for Lonely Sunfish at Japanese Aquarium

A sociable sunfish in Japan’s Kaikyokan aquarium showed signs of distress after the facility closed for renovations. To address its apparent loneliness, staff created cardboard human friends, which successfully improved the fish’s health and mood, highlighting innovative care methods for aquatic animals.

In an extraordinary act of creativity to combat loneliness, the Kaikyokan aquarium in Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi prefecture, has provided companionship for a struggling sunfish during its temporary closure for renovations. Staff members shared images on their X account showcasing the sunfish swimming next to photographs of human faces affixed to uniforms—an initiative taken as a “last resort” to help alleviate the fish's declining health, which was believed to stem from isolation.

After the aquarium closed its doors in December, the sunfish began to exhibit worrying behaviors such as refusing to eat jellyfish and rubbing itself against the tank walls. Initially suspected of having parasites or digestive issues, one insightful staff member suggested that the fish may be experiencing loneliness due to the absence of visitors, which led to the unique solution.

The cardboard human friends appeared to work wonders. Kaikyokan staff noted on X that the sunfish showed marked improvement, declaring it “seems to be in good health again” just a day after the new companions were introduced. This particular sunfish, measuring around 80 centimeters long and weighing about 30 kilograms, had been living in the aquarium for about a year and was known for its friendly demeanor, often swimming toward patrons when they approached.

Following the introduction of the photos and uniforms, the aquarium reported that the sunfish was observed “waving its fins” joyfully in the tank the next day. The initiative garnered significant attention on social media, with many users expressing support and sharing nostalgic memories of their encounters with the sunfish.

This creative approach is not unprecedented in Japan, as aquariums during difficult times have embraced unconventional methods to ensure the well-being of their animals. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, a Tokyo aquarium notably held video calls for its eels, acknowledging their unease after prolonged human absence.

Through such imaginative solutions, the Kaikyokan aquarium not only underscores the emotional needs of aquatic life but also demonstrates how compassion and creativity can enhance animal welfare in challenging situations.