Sunfish Thrives After Aquarium Closure, Revitalized by Innovative Human Cutouts

A sunfish at the Kaikyokan aquarium in Shimonoseki, Japan, began to show signs of distress after the facility closed on December 1, 2024, for renovations. The fish, which lost its appetite and started banging against the tank, has since recovered following the introduction of human cutouts and staff uniforms placed outside its tank to simulate an audience.

The sunfish, a member of the blowfish family known for its distinctive shape and large eyes, arrived at the aquarium in February 2024 from Kochi, Japan. It quickly became a favorite among visitors. However, after the aquarium closed for a six-month renovation, the fish exhibited troubling behavior, including a lack of appetite and repeated collisions with the tank walls. Staff initially suspected digestive issues and attempted to comfort the fish during construction noise, but these efforts did not yield results.

In a staff meeting, the idea emerged that the absence of an audience might be affecting the sunfish’s well-being. The team decided to take action by hanging their uniforms and placing cutouts of humans with smiling faces outside the tank. This unconventional approach led to immediate results, as the sunfish began eating the next day. The staff now regularly interacts with the fish, waving and checking on its progress.

As the aquarium prepares for its reopening in summer 2025, the keepers express hope that many fans will return to see the sunfish. They believe the fish’s recovery is a testament to the bond between animals and their caretakers, emphasizing the importance of the human presence in the lives of creatures in captivity.

The sunfish’s recovery highlights the impact of environmental changes on animal behavior and the lengths caretakers will go to ensure the health and happiness of their charges. With the aquarium set to reopen, both staff and visitors look forward to the sunfish’s continued recovery and the joy it brings to the community.