A wonderland for weirdos

Mudskipper ©Zoo Frankfurt

Northern river terrapin @Daniel Zupanc/Tiergarten Schönbrunn

Horseshoe Crab @Daniel Zupanc/Tiergarten Schönbrunn

An ecosystem in miniature is being created in the former penguin enclosure in the Exotarium - our new mangrove landscape.

Mangroves are fascinating habitats between land and sea. They are among the most species-rich ecosystems of all. Why this is so and how important mangroves are for us humans can soon be found out in the Exotarium. The facility will be home to very special and partly endangered species such as the northern river terrapin, mudskipper, hydrosaurus, horseshoe crab and archerfish.

The 66-square-metre former penguin enclosure has to be fundamentally rebuilt and renovated for this purpose.

• The large panes of safety glass had to be refurbished.
• The rocky landscape will be partly demolished and rebuilt.
• New painting to enhance the impression of the landscape.
• Planting islands have to be created and filled with soil.
• Mangrove plants, which we will receive from the Frankfurt Palmengarten, will be used.
• A laying beach will be created for the turtles.
• Special lamps provide optimal light for animals and plants.
• Racks, which are modelled on the aerial roots of the mangrove trees, are elaborately made by hand.
• The equipment and technology must be adapted to the conditions in brackish water (a mixture of fresh and salt water). Special concrete and a special coating are used here.

Even though there is no completion date for the time being - the reconstruction of the facility has begun and the progress will be visible once the demolition and concrete work has been completed. 

A cooperation with the Frankfurt Palmengarten.