A massive controversy has erupted on social media after it was revealed that the giant whale shark at the Xiaomeisha Sea World aquarium in Shenzhen, China, is actually a robot. The aquarium, which opened for a preview on October 1, 2024, attracted around 100,000 visitors in its first week.
Visitors had flocked to the aquarium to see the over 18-meter-long whale shark, only to later discover that it was a robot. The aquarium explained that the robot was used to comply with international restrictions on the trade and capture of live whale sharks, which are endangered species.
Additionally, concerns have been raised about the health of the fish in the tanks, with some fish showing white spots and signs of poor health. While animal welfare groups have expressed support for this decision, many visitors, who paid an entrance fee of $60, are now demanding refunds.
Viewer Comments:
I’d actually like to see it.
The entrance fee is probably way too expensive, though.
I feel like they might just close it down before they even fully open.
Comment