Innovative Solution: Cardboard Friends Help Lonely Sunfish Thrive in Japan

After temporary closure due to renovations, a sunfish at Kaikyokan aquarium in Japan experienced health issues attributed to loneliness, prompting staff to create cardboard human friends. The unique solution revived the sunfish's spirits and sparked joy among social media users, showcasing the creativity of aquariums in animal care.

At the Kaikyokan aquarium in Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi prefecture, an unusual method has been employed to bring comfort to a lonely sunfish. This sociable creature, deeply affected by the absence of its human audience during the aquarium's temporary closure for renovations, has found solace in an unconventional gesture. Photos depicting human faces, affixed to rows of uniforms, were strategically placed to create a semblance of company for the fish.

Originally posted on the aquarium's X account, the initiative was described as a "last resort" aimed at alleviating health issues the sunfish began to experience. Staff members observed that the fish had stopped eating jellyfish, opting instead to rub against the tank walls, which led them to initially suspect health complications related to parasites or digestive concerns. However, one staff member proposed that the sunfish could be suffering from loneliness due to the lack of visitors, prompting the creative response.

After the cardboard figures were introduced, the sunfish quickly showed signs of improvement, swimming jovially and waving its fins. The aquarium reported, "It seems to be in good health again!" confirming the effectiveness of their unusual intervention.

Weighing nearly 30kg (66 lbs) and measuring approximately 80cm (31in), the sunfish has been a fixture at Kaikyokan since arriving a year ago. Known for its curious nature, it would often swim toward visitors showing interest in its habitat.

The aquarium's social media post detailing the sunfish's revival drew widespread support, with many individuals sharing their own photos and videos of the playful sunfish from past visits. This heartwarming story sheds light on the creative solutions many aquariums have deployed to address the emotional and mental well-being of their animals.

In a similar vein, during the COVID-19 pandemic, several zoos and aquariums around the world reported animals feeling isolated due to the absence of visitors, prompting innovative strategies such as virtual interactions. Japan has thus further demonstrated its commitment to animal welfare through this engaging approach to aquarium care.