Visitors Furious as Chinese Aquarium Reveals Whale Shark Exhibit Is a Mechanical Fake

Visitors to China’s Xiaomeisha Sea World were left disappointed after learning that the aquarium’s prized whale shark exhibit is, in fact, a mechanical imitation. The aquarium reopened on October 1 after extensive renovations, attracting over 100,000 visitors eager to witness the world’s largest fish. But as visitors soon discovered, the "whale shark" they were excited to see was a robot, prompting anger and demands for refunds. Many visitors expressed their frustration on social media, with some saying they had anticipated seeing a real whale shark, only to be greeted by a mechanical one with visible gaps.

The aquarium explained that the decision to feature a robotic whale shark was due to strict laws protecting the species, which cannot be captured or traded. Despite the aquarium's defense, public outcry persisted, with many arguing that a robotic display undermined the experience. The incident recalls a similar controversy where a Chinese zoo painted dogs to look like pandas, which sparked animal welfare concerns. This latest case adds to ongoing debates over the ethics of using fake animals in attractions, and whether such tactics are misleading to the public.