#Japan #Tokyo #Sunshine Aquarium #Yakoutake #Fireflies

Discover the Magic of Bioluminescent Life at Sunshine Aquarium

The Sunshine Aquarium in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, invites visitors to explore the mysterious beauty of nocturnal and bioluminescent creatures in its special exhibition titled "Midnight Creatures," running until November 24. This unique event focuses on life after dark, offering new insights and visual wonders that are typically hidden from view.

A Glimpse of Bioluminescence

The exhibition features a stunning showcase of the glowing Yakoutake mushroom and various species of fireflies. For a limited time, the Yakoutake (or luminescent mushroom) will be on display, illuminating the aquarium with its ethereal glow. This small mushroom, with a cap measuring just 1-3 cm, primarily thrives in tropical rainforests. Its luminescence, which lasts only for 2-3 days, is a rare phenomenon and remains a subject of intrigue among scientists.

Additionally, visitors can witness the mesmerizing flash of fireflies, whose adult lifespan lasts around a week. These fascinating insects use light as a means to attract mates, with males actively flashing their glow while females respond with subtle blinks from their resting spots.

Why Do They Glow?

The reasons behind the Yakoutake’s luminescence and that of fireflies are still not fully understood, adding an element of mystery to these species. Some theories suggest that glowing attracts insects to help spread the mushroom's spores, while for fireflies, the glow is a crucial element in mate selection.

An Exhibition Like No Other

According to Yuji Mita, staff member at Sunshine Aquarium, this is the first time these bioluminescent creatures have been displayed at the aquarium. He mentions that due to limited knowledge on keeping such species, they spent a year gathering information and experimenting to prepare for this exhibition. Given the short lifespan of their luminescent phases, this is a unique opportunity for guests to witness their rare beauty.

Event Details:

• - Exhibition Name: Sunshine Aquarium Special Exhibition "Midnight Creatures"
• - Exhibition Period: Ongoing until November 24 (closed June 19)
• - Location: Special Exhibition Hall, Sunshine Aquarium
• - Admission Fees:

- Standard Ticket: 600 JPY
- Ticket with Exclusive Glow-in-the-Dark Sticker: 800 JPY
- Discounts available for aquarium club members and with certain passes.

• - Website for Details: Sunshine Aquarium

Understanding Nocturnal Life

Nocturnal creatures are those active during the night and rest during the day. Many have adapted to low-light conditions, featuring heightened senses or unique body structures to help them thrive in darkness. Predatory nocturnal animals often target daytime-dwelling prey, taking advantage of their vulnerability while they rest.

Fascinating Cave Dwellers

Creatures that live in caves exemplify further adaptations; many have lost their vision or developed specialized senses to navigate the lightless environments. Some species have evolved tactile features such as sensitive antennae to explore their unhospitable homes.

Rare Species on Display

• - Eurasian Pygmy Owl: This silent hunter can fly through dark forests without making sound, precisely locating prey with extraordinary hearing.
• - Egyptian Fruit Bat: Utilizing echolocation, this bat navigates dark caves, foraging for fruits and flowers at night.
• - Rare Slideshow Salamander: Once thought extinct in the wild, this unique salamander is showcased in the aquarium, continuing its legacy with lifespan records up to 60 years.

Highlights of the Exhibition

Visitors are encouraged to come and marvel at the breathtaking bioluminescent displays. Given unclear factors around their glowing phases, this exhibition is a rare opportunity to engage with such elusive natural phenomena.

Enjoy this enchanting experience at Sunshine Aquarium and bring along your family and friends to witness the midnight marvels of nature.

Additional Notes

Please be aware that displays may vary depending on the conditions, and some creatures may not glow at all times. For more detailed information regarding timings and ticketing, please refer to the official website. Don’t miss this unique exhibition—it promises to be an unforgettable night under the glow of the bioluminescent wonders!