Tropics

Discover some of the world’s most beautiful and colourful tropical fish in our Tropics exhibits. From vibrant corals to the sunken remains of Krakatoa, our displays offer a fascinating glimpse at the diversity of life in the warmer waters of the world.

It’s no secret that the tropics play host to a treasure trove of spectacular marine life. From the Pacific to the Atlantic and all the seas in between, these warm waters are teeming with rare and exotic species, many of which are on display right here at Deep Sea World.

Thanks to the latest aquarium technology, our Tropics exhibits recreate the temperature and conditions that tropical fish and coral reefs need to thrive. Expect fish, corals and invertebrates of every size and colour – from the elegant bamboo catshark (Chiloscyllium punctatum) to the oh-so-adorable clownfish (Amphiprioninae).

Ready to venture to the tropics? Dive in and discover more about these beautiful exhibits below.

What are the tropics?

Tropical fish have long captured the imagination with their vibrant colours and sheer diversity. But what do we mean by “tropical”? And what exactly are the tropics?

Essentially, the “tropics” refers to areas of land and sea that fully encircle Earth. They follow the equator between the Tropic of Cancer in the Northern Hemisphere and the Tropic of Capricorn in the Southern Hemisphere. As such, the tropics are found in several seas and oceans, including the Pacific, the Indian, the Caribbean, and the Atlantic.

As you’ve probably guessed, tropical fish are those that live in the tropics. They rely on the region’s warm waters, which sit at a temperature of around 26°C year-round, as well as the tropical plant life and coral reef systems that thrive in these unique, colourful, and diverse marine habitats.

What animals will I find there?

While it would be impossible to squeeze the many thousands of species that live in the tropics into one aquarium, Deep Sea World has done its utmost to showcase the diversity of life in these invaluable marine environments. As such, you can look forward to colourful and vibrant displays, including one or two species that you’re certain to recognise…

You may, for instance, be pretty familiar with the humble clownfish. This beautiful tropical fish is best known for its appearance in the Finding Nemo franchise, a fact that has led it to become one of the most popular fish in our Tropics exhibits – perhaps our entire aquarium!

While our resident clownfish are certainly attention-grabbing, other animals give them a run for their money in the wow-factor stakes. Feast your eyes on the brilliantly named Picasso triggerfish (Rhinecanthus aculeatus), the eye-popping Sailfin tang (Zebrasoma veliferum), and the Chocolate chip starfish (Protoreaster nodosus), all waiting to make your acquaintance.

Check out our species list below for a full breakdown of the marvellous critters you can expect.

What is the Tropics exhibit atmosphere like?

You’ve learnt a little about the wonderful world of the tropics, so now it’s time to take a closer look at how we’ve brought this unique marine region to life in our beloved Tropics exhibits.

To provide the ultimate showcase of tropical species, our Tropics exhibit features four displays containing salt water that’s kept at a constant temperature of 26°C – roughly the same as tropical waters around the equator. This is perfect for housing species like clownfish, tangs, and groupers, as well as the tropical reef systems on which these animals rely.

Over at the main tank within the Tropics, you’ll find Krakatoa, a colourful homage to the Indonesian volcano of the same name that erupted on 27th August 1883. Causing widespread devastation, the eruption flooded many villages whose submerged ruins now serve as a rich habitat for tropical marine life. The Krakaota display gives you the chance to learn more about Krakatoa and the species that thrived in its aftermath.

Who would enjoy the Tropics exhibits?

Whether you’re a youngster whose favourite film is Finding Nemo (or an adult, for that matter) or simply someone who’s interested in learning more about the rich tapestry of life that thrives in tropical waters – the Tropics exhibits at Deep Sea World has something for everyone.

Of course, the vibrant species that call the tropics home are the main draw of the exhibit. Children and adults alike can spend hours watching these brightly coloured critters dart about, choosing new favourites as they go.

But cast your eyes away from the display and there’s a whole lot more to discover. Our Tropics exhibits not only profile some of the resident species, but also tropical habitats more broadly.

Learn about the contribution that coral reefs make in these invaluable habitats, both for the species that live among them and for the health of our seas and oceans. And find out how climate change is threatening the species that live in these tropical regions, as well as the conservation work being done to preserve them.

Accessibility

The Tropics exhibits, like all areas of Deep Sea World, have been designed with accessibility in mind. Visitors with mobility issues should have little difficulty moving freely around the exhibits, with ramps in place to ensure seamless wheelchair access.

For more information about accessibility at Deep Sea World, please visit our main accessibility page.