Aquariums are amazing places to explore the diversity and beauty of marine life.
They offer a glimpse into the underwater world, where you can see colorful fishes, majestic sharks, graceful rays, and other fascinating creatures.
Some aquariums are so large and impressive that they can hold millions of gallons of water and thousands of species of aquatic animals.
In this article, we will introduce you to the top 5 largest aquariums in the world, based on their total water volume and their largest tank size.
We will also tell you some interesting facts about each aquarium and what makes them unique.
List of Top 5 Largest Aquariums in the World
| Aquarium | Location | Total Water Volume (liters) | Largest Tank (liters) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chimelong Ocean Kingdom | China | 48.75 million | 22.7 million |
| S.E.A. Aquarium | Singapore | 45.2 million | 18.17 million |
| L’Oceanogràfic | Spain | 41.6 million | 7 million |
| Georgia Aquarium | USA | 41.64 million | 23.85 million |
1. Chimelong Ocean Kingdom, China
The Chimelong Ocean Kingdom is the largest aquarium in the world, with a total water volume of 48.75 million liters (12.88 million gallons) and the largest tank of 22.7 million liters (5.99 million gallons).
It holds several Guinness World Records, such as the largest underwater viewing dome, the largest aquarium window, and the largest acrylic panel.
The aquarium is part of a theme park that features eight themed areas, each representing a part of the ocean.
Aquarium houses more than 300 species of marine animals, including whale sharks, beluga whales, polar bears, penguins, and dolphins. The aquarium also offers various interactive programs, such as diving, snorkeling, feeding sessions, and animal encounters.
2. S.E.A. Aquarium, Singapore
The S.E.A. Aquarium is the second largest aquarium in the world, with a total water volume of 45.2 million liters (11.94 million gallons) and the largest tank of 18.17 million liters (4.8 million gallons).
It held the Guinness World Record for the largest aquarium from 2012 to 2014 until it was surpassed by the Chimelong Ocean Kingdom.
The aquarium is located in Resorts World Sentosa, a resort island that also hosts other attractions, such as Universal Studios Singapore and Adventure Cove Waterpark.
The aquarium showcases more than 100,000 marine animals from over 800 species across 49 habitats.
Some of the highlights include manta rays, hammerhead sharks, giant moray eels, and sea jellies.
3. L’Oceanogràfic, Spain
Located in Valencia, Spain, the L’Oceanogràfic stands as the world’s third-largest aquarium, boasting a total water volume of 41.6 million liters (10.99 million gallons), featuring a colossal tank holding 7 million liters (1.85 million gallons).
Situated within the City of Arts and Sciences, a multifaceted cultural and architectural complex, it shares space with a science museum, opera house, IMAX cinema, and botanical garden.
Santiago Calatrava, the renowned architect, envisioned the aquarium in the likeness of a water lily when viewed from above.
Housing over 500 diverse marine species sourced from varied habitats like:
- the Mediterranean Sea
- the Arctic Ocean
- the Red Sea
- the Amazon River
- L’Oceanogràfic offers a captivating array of attractions including:
- beluga whales
- walruses
- sea lions
- penguins
- sharks
- rays
- turtles
4. Georgia Aquarium, USA
The Georgia Aquarium is the fourth largest aquarium in the world, with a total water volume of 41.64 million liters (11 million gallons) and the largest tank of 23.85 million liters (6.3 million gallons).
It held the Guinness World Record for the largest aquarium from 2005 to 2012 until it was overtaken by the S.E.A Aquarium.
The aquarium is located in Atlanta and was funded by a $250 million donation from Bernard Marcus, the co-founder of The Home Depot.
The aquarium features seven major galleries that display more than 100,000 aquatic animals from over 700 species.
5. Moscow Oceanarium (Moskvarium), Russia
The Moscow Oceanarium (Moskvarium) is the fifth largest aquarium in the world, with a total water volume of 25 million liters (6.6 million gallons) and the largest tank of 3.7 million liters (977 thousand gallons).
It is located in the All-Russia Exhibition Centre (VDNKh), a trade show and amusement park in Moscow that also hosts other attractions, such as museums, monuments, and pavilions.
The aquarium opened in 2015 and showcases more than 12 thousand marine animals from over 600 species.
Some of the rare and exotic creatures include polar bears, sea lions, manatees, orca whales, and crocodiles.
The aquarium also offers educational programs, shows, and activities for visitors of all ages.
Conclusion
Aquatic Museums are not only places to admire the beauty and diversity of marine life but also to learn about the importance and conservation of the oceans and their inhabitants.
The top 5 largest aquariums in the world are impressive examples of how humans can create and maintain artificial habitats for aquatic animals, while also providing entertainment and education for the public.
These aquatic museums are worth visiting for anyone who loves the sea and its wonders.
