Switzerland: New “Aquatis” Fresh Water Aquarium in Lausanne Now Open

In the Swiss municipality of Lausanne, the new Aquatis fresh water aquarium has recently opened, claiming itself as Europe’s largest fresh water aquarium, covering an area of more than 3,500 square meters. Over 10,000 fresh water fish from across the globe as well as miscellaneous reptiles and amphibians inhabit 46 aquariums and terrariums, representing a total of 20 ecosystems.

The ground floor of the building hosts a reception area, a souvenir shop and the Amazon-themed restaurant “Le Piranha”. On this level, guests can participate in a guided tour behind the scenes to learn more about the functionality of the aquariums and vivariums. The first floor is dedicated to fishes and reptiles from Europe, representing the Alpine waters, Lake Geneva, the Rhône and the Mediterranean region. Furthermore, visitors are offered to travel back in time to the dinosaurian period, when fish were already inhabiting the waters on the planet.

On the second floor, visitors can discover numerous fish species from Africa, Asia, South America and Oceania. To highlight the rich biodiversity of the planet and to provide an insight into the evolutionary development of the animals, the aquarium also makes use of digital technology and hosts a permanent exhibition, two touring exhibitions and pedagogical areas.

Furthermore, the building appeals to guests with its interesting architecture, composing 100,000 lamellas shimmering in the sun and resembling fish scales. For companies the building offers conference rooms for up to 300 persons. (eap)