A sunfish at an aquarium in southwestern Japan recently captured the hearts of many after displaying signs of distress following the facility's closure for renovations. The large sunfish, known for its unique shape and big eyes, had become a beloved attraction at the Kaikyokan aquarium in Shimonoseki since its arrival from the southern coast of Kochi in the Pacific Ocean in February 2024.
Concerns arose when the sunfish lost its appetite, exhibited erratic behavior by banging into the tank walls, and appeared unwell. Despite efforts to address possible digestive issues and provide comfort during construction noise, the sunfish showed no signs of improvement.
However, a creative solution emerged during a staff meeting when the idea that the sunfish might miss its audience was proposed. In a last-ditch effort to lift the sunfish's spirits, the aquarium keepers hung their uniforms and placed human-shaped cutouts with smiling faces outside the tank.
To everyone's surprise, the following morning, the sunfish began eating for the first time in about a week. Since then, the sunfish has been steadily recovering, much to the delight of the aquarium staff. They now make a point to visit the sunfish more frequently, waving and interacting with it.
The heartwarming interaction between the sunfish and the human cutouts has sparked hope among the aquarium keepers that the beloved fish will continue to thrive. As the aquarium prepares to reopen in the summer after a six-month renovation, they eagerly anticipate the return of fans who have been touched by the sunfish's remarkable story.
