Aquatika – a protector of biodiversity
The Public Institution AQUATIKA – KARLOVAC FRESHWATER AQUARIUM was established as part of an EU project entitled “FRESHWATER AQUARIUM AND RIVER MUSEUM – KAQUARIUM”, and was co-financed by the European Union from the European Regional Development Fund.
Aquatika is intended for everyone, from children and young people, to scientists, aquarium enthusiasts, nature lovers and the local population, and aims to raise awareness of the exceptional biodiversity of our freshwater ecosystems. Its primary purpose is to educate visitors as to how the exceptional natural wealth of Croatia can be used in the function of sustainable tourism. The aquarium displays Croatian freshwater fish fauna and plants and their habitats, with more than 80 species of fish, including 30 endemic species, which are plants or animal species that are only found in one specific geographic area. If the area is very small (a cave, lake, river or mountain), this species is then classified as stenoendemic. It is important to note that among the 150 fish species found in Croatia’s rivers and lakes, 52 are endemic. This wealth of species is the consequence of Croatia’s geographical position, which includes both the Danube (Black Sea) and Adriatic Basin.
The aquarium complex is designed to display the course of a karst river and its various habitats, such as the Korana where the aquarium is situated. The design is based on the idea of dividing the river course into its upper, middle and lower sections.
Thanks to the green garden roof concept, the aquarium has a minimal impact on the landscape, and the green vistas of the surrounding areas have been preserved.
Aquatika is a unique freshwater aquarium in Europe and provides visitors with the unique experience of the underwater world that we seem to know well, but still have so much more to learn.
EXHIBITIONS
“Endemic species of Croatian Rivers”
With this photography exhibition we want to highlight the great role that biodiversity has in sustainable development. We have shown 10 different endemic species that inhabit only Croatian rivers.
We aim to encourage and promote the activities that protect nature.
With this photographs we have shown in an interesting and educational way the richness of our rivers, with some facts about our endemic fish species.
Link on our web page: https://aquariumkarlovac.com/endemi-hrvatskih-rijeka/.
“The underworld water”
The exhibition of the speleo-photography “The Underworld water” shows art photography created under enemy subterranean conditions. We find underground water in all possible forms and aggregate states. From dropps and creeks to underground streams and rivers. Drinking water is invaluable treasure hidden in the caves of Croatia. The importance of protecting this wealth is not only due to the exceptional biosphere that exists in this environment but also for the protection of the surface world.
Link to our web page: https://aquariumkarlovac.com/izlozba-vode-podzemlja/.
“The rivers of Croatia” (The photography exhibition)
Author is Goran Šafarek, a well-known Croatian biologist, photographer, filmmaker and publicist. About 20 large photographs show some of the most beautiful scenery of our rivers, recorded in water, on the surface and from the air, including some of the rare species of animals. With this exhibition we want to enhance the importance of environmental protection, biodiversity and the tradition and beauty of life along the river.
Link on our web page: https://aquariumkarlovac.com/otvorenje-izlozbe-gorana-safareka/.