Two species of molluscs and a crustacean, all rarely seen living in zoos, least of all in such large numbers. Albeit a little cramped, this was a fascinating display.
I agree, that is such a cool exhibit idea, I do wish more zoos and aquariums did more stuff with stationary invertebrates like these, although I guess it’s probably just because of the logistics of feeding all these filter feeders that we don’t see it as much
I think another reason, specific to the mussels, is that they breed too fast and given that they attach to surfaces, the tank can quickly end up overcrowded, not only making for poor viewing if they block the glass, but also being potentially dangerous if they block the filtration system. Not sure how Océanopolis adapts to this. Perhaps using a species that breeds less frequently, or releasing some to the wild once the tank gets too crowded?
I didn’t think about the filtration problem. That’s probably a big limitation as well, I guess maybe guarding filters with mesh that’s to fine to allow them to get into the filter.
