Amazon Exploration
Ready to be transported to the flooded rivers of the Amazon rainforest? Escape the cooler climates and find yourself in one of the hottest, wettest environments in the world: The Amazon Rainforest.
While you’re there, you’ll come face to fin with Black Pacu, Arowanas and Stingrays. We’re looking forward to you visiting, but before you do that, let’s take a look at what else you can expect from our exhibit below as well as more on the animals in the Amazon rainforest below…
What is it?
What is the Flooded Forest?
Over the course of the year, the Amazon remains hot, with just two seasons: wet and dry. The Flooded Forest is what happens when the river is in its wet season. When this happens, the banks of the Amazon, which cover the likes of Brazil, Peru, Colombia and other South American countries, are engulfed in over 10 metres of water.
While some species migrate or move to smaller, drier areas, its water-based animals (like manatees and fish) are in for a real treat: the river’s resources and soils become packed with nutrients, giving them plenty to stay strong ahead of the dry season.
What's it like?
What should I expect?
A place where you can immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this mighty part of the world, our tropical Flooded River exhibit mimics this hot and humid location – without having to pack your raincoat!
The Amazon itself is a whopping 325km wide. To give you an idea of its scale, that makes it almost as wide as England! It also receives an average of 3cm of rain each day, and so it’s no surprise that such a huge waterway makes up 20% of the world’s freshwater – so it’s vital to protect it. We’re doing our bit to make sure it is by keeping some of its inhabitants safe and sound in an environment that ensures they’re properly taken care of. Speaking of…
What will I find at the Flooded Forest?
Black Pacu
The second largest species of fish in the Amazon, Black Pacu (Colossoma macropomum) are fruit-eating relatives of the piranha. In fact, they’re often mistaken for them – but Black Pacu are a pretty peaceful bunch, preferring to munch on plants more than anything, although small fish should still watch out, as they are omnivores by nature. Here, we feed things like apples and carrots to keep them healthy.
Who's it for?
Who would enjoy this exhibit?
Particular about Pacu? Bonkers for Brazil? This exhibit is very much for you – or anyone else interested in the incredible animals that call the southern hemisphere their home.
And as you’d expect, kids and families are in for a treat too. We’ve designed everything in our exhibit to make it a fascinating, informative experience for all our visitors, whether they’re big or small.
Accessibility
Everywhere in our Flooded Forest exhibit is accessible by wheelchair and mobility scooter, and you can also take a look at our Pacu enclosure from our seating area too!
Amazon Exploration
Ready to be transported to the flooded rivers of the Amazon rainforest? Escape the cooler climates and find yourself in one of the hottest, wettest environments in the world: The Amazon Rainforest.
Current Water Temp
25
Water Type
Fresh Water
Climate / Biome
Tropical Rainforest
In This Exhibit
30 species | 3000 animals
Where are we?
South and Central America