Our Aquarium family knows and loves the I&J Ocean Exhibit, but do you know how it got its name, why it houses only warm-water animals, or how visitors can experience the majesty of the space themselves? We’ve got you covered. Read on to learn about this spectacular exhibit...
Why the name?
The I&J Oceans Exhibit at the Two Oceans Aquarium carries its name in recognition of a long-standing and meaningful partnership. I&J has been a founding partner of the Aquarium since 1995, supporting our mission through shared values around ocean sustainability.
As Jonty Jankovich-Besan, the managing director of I&J, explains: “We have partnered with the Aquarium because our vision for the ocean is very much in line with theirs - we are committed to ensuring the sustainability of both the ocean and its bounty, for generations to come.”
This exhibit stands as a symbol of that shared commitment, a space designed not only to inspire awe but also to promote conservation and responsible stewardship of marine ecosystems.
Inside the I&J Oceans Exhibit
The I&J Oceans Exhibit is one of the Aquarium’s most impressive and immersive spaces. As the second-largest exhibit, it offers visitors a rare glimpse into a vibrant underwater world filled with warm-water marine life.
A living ocean environment
Did you know that the water in the exhibit flows directly from the ocean itself, drawn from Table Bay? Maintained at a warm 20-24°C, it creates the perfect environment for tropical and subtropical species. In fact, this is the warmest exhibit in the Aquarium, and holds an incredible 1.6 million litres of seawater.
At 6 metres deep, the exhibit features a spectacular 10-metre-long tunnel - the first of its kind in South Africa, allowing visitors to walk beneath the marine life. The main viewing window is equally impressive: A seamless 9-metre-wide panel, standing 4 metres tall and weighing a remarkable 22 tonnes.
A home for remarkable marine life
This exhibit is home to a diverse range of species, many of which thrive specifically because of the warmer water conditions.
Visitors can encounter:
- Three types of stingrays, including blue rays, round ribbon-tail rays, and eagle rays,
- Sea turtles undergoing rehabilitation at the Turtle Conservation Centre,
- Indigenous fish species such as musselcrackers,
- The endangered seventy-four fish, which is listed on the IUCN Red List,
- Pawpaw, the beloved guineafowl pufferfish.
Interestingly, warmer waters tend to support more colourful fish, while colder waters are typically home to silvery-grey schooling fish. This makes the I&J Ocean Exhibit particularly vibrant and visually striking.
Care, feeding, and behaviour
The animals in the exhibit are carefully cared for by a dedicated team of aquarists. Feeding takes place every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 12h00, and it’s a coordinated effort involving three divers: One holds the food bucket, one target feeds the stingrays, and one feeds the turtles.
The animals enjoy a varied diet, including vegetables and specially enriched meals to ensure optimal health. Many species, like the musselcrackers, thrive under this attentive care and live beyond their expected wild lifespans.
Each animal also has their own resting habits. For example:
- Kai, a loggerhead turtle who has since been released, preferred sleeping under a cave.
- Pawpaw and another fish, Dori, enjoy resting among certain rocks.
A diver’s perspective
For those seeking a more immersive experience, the I&J Ocean Exhibit offers adventure diving opportunities - whether you’re a certified diver or trying it for the first time. This allows visitors to get up close with the marine life in a truly unforgettable way.
Divers often note fascinating details, such as the luminous appearance of wrasse fish underwater - something not as noticeable from outside the exhibit.
Inspiring ocean conservation
Beyond its beauty and scale, the I&J Ocean Exhibit serves a deeper purpose. It’s a platform for education and inspiration, encouraging visitors to think more critically about ocean conservation.
As our CEO, Michael Farquhar, puts it: “This magnificent exhibit aims to capture the public’s attention and presents us with an opportunity to inspire action for the future well-being of our oceans.”
Through partnerships like that with I&J, and exhibits like this one, the Two Oceans Aquarium continues to connect people with the ocean - fostering awareness, appreciation, and a shared responsibility to protect it.
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