The Two Oceans Aquarium is home to an incredible diversity of marine life, from ragged-tooth sharks to stingrays. But while the “stars of the show” often grab attention, there are many smaller, lesser-known animals at the Aquarium that are just as fascinating.
Dwarf pufferfish
Small but mighty, the dwarf pufferfish is one of the Aquarium’s cutest residents. With dotted skin, yellow accents, and green-ringed eyes, it’s a master of camouflage often buried in sand with only its eyes peeking out! Don’t be fooled by its size: Its fused teeth form a beak strong enough to crack open hard-shelled prey, and it even carries a natural toxin that deters predators from messing with it. Find them in the Dwarf Pufferfish Exhibit just past the I&J Ocean Exhibit tunnel.
Abalone
Locally called perlemoen, abalone is more than just a sea snail – it’s a symbol of conservation. Their iridescent, “mother-of-pearl” shells are unmistakable, and by grazing on kelp scraps, they help ecosystems stay in balance. Sadly, they face threats from overfishing and poaching, making them a powerful reminder of why we must protect our oceans.
Spiny sea star
They may look delicate, but spiny sea stars are tough! With arms stretching up to 70cm, they’re some of the largest sea stars around. Their vibrant colours (often with yellow, red, or purple-tipped arms) may be striking, but their ability to blend into sand and rock makes them masters of disguise. At the Aquarium, you’ll have a front-row seat to admire these resilient animals in the Diversity Gallery without straining your eyes.
Parrotfish
It’s not just their bright colour that makes parrotfish stand out – it’s their unique beak-shaped mouths. Their “beaks” are actually tightly packed teeth that help them to scrape algae off rocks and coral. In the wild, parrotfish play a crucial role in keeping coral reefs healthy and bring a splash of tropical colour to our local waters. Admire their beauty in the I&J Ocean Exhibit.
The ocean is full of hidden gems, and these animals prove that wonder often lies in the smaller details. Take a closer look on your next Two Oceans Aquarium visit and you might just find a new favourite!
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Dive into wonder 🐠🌊
From playful penguins to mysterious deep-sea dwellers, every corner of Two Oceans Aquarium is an invitation to explore. Come face-to-fin with the magic beneath the waves – we can’t wait to see your wide-eyed wonder.
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Sea you soon! 🪸🐙
Step into an underwater world filled with colour, curiosity, and conservation. Bring your friends, family, or just your sense of awe, and join us at Two Oceans Aquarium.
Let’s make a splash together.
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