13th International Aquarium Conference to be held in China

The International Aquarium Congress (IAC) last week handed over the flag from Mexico to China, marking the official countdown to the 13th IAC in 2027. The flag was transferred to Wuhan by HHAn-Wuhan Polar Ocean Park, signifying the return of this important international event to China for the first time since Shanghai hosted it in 2008.

The IAC, a premier event in the aquarium sector since 1960, convenes every three years to foster exchange and collaboration among the global aquarium community, scientific researchers, and educators. It serves as a platform for sharing cutting-edge research and management expertise.

Wuhan is home to the largest cluster of aquatic organism research institutions, freshwater fisheries, and ecosystem studies in China.

 HHAn-Wuhan Polar Ocean Park was selected for several reasons with member of the IAC Steering Committee noting “the park's exceptional facilities, biological exhibits, and advanced breeding and conservation practices.”

As the largest ocean-themed integrated resort and key urban tourism landmark in central China, HHAn-Wuhan Polar Ocean Park is preparing to construct a 2,000-square-metre science education museum in time for the upcoming conference. The museum, themed around aquatic organisms in the Yangtze River basin and focusing on freshwater ecological protection, aims to lead Yangtze River ecological conservation efforts through public science education and outreach initiatives.

Its mission is to engage a broader audience and encourage them to participate in efforts to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of aquatic biodiversity and to protect the Yangtze River.