OCEAN RESEARCH INSTITUTE & OCEAN AQUARIUM

AT ECR, CHENNAI

THESIS REPORT

Submitted by

PRADEEP K
(311715251076)

in partial fulfilment for the award of the degree

of
BACHELOR OF ARCHITECTURE

MOHAMED SATHAK A.J

ACADEMY OF ARCHITECTURE
CHENNAI 603 103

APRIL 2020
OCEAN RESEARCH INSTITUTE & OCEAN AQUARIUM
AT ECR, CHENNAI

THESIS REPORT

Submitted by

PRADEEP K
(311715251076)

in partial fulfilment for the award of the degree

of
BACHELOR OF ARCHITECTURE

MOHAMED SATHAK A.J

ACADEMY OF ARCHITECTURE
CHENNAI 603 103

APRIL 2020
 MOHAMED SATHAK A.J ACADEMY OF ARCHITECTURE
CHENNAI – 603 103

BONAFIDE CERTIFICATE

Certified that the Thesis titled “OCEAN RESEARCH INSTITUTE & OCEAN
AQUARIUM” is the bonafide work of PRADEEP K (311715251076) who carried
out the thesis work under my supervision. Certified further, that to the best of my
knowledge this thesis work reported herein does not form part of any other thesis on
the basis of which a degree or award was conferred on an earlier occasion on this or
any other student.

Internal Guides Principal

External Examiner 1 External Examiner 2

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER TITLE PAGE NO

No.
ABSTRACT iii
List of Tables xvi
List of Figures xviii
List of Symbols and Abbreviations xxvii
List of Drawings xxviii

1 Introduction 1
1.1 Ocean aquarium 2
1.2 Project 3
1.3 Difference between Aquarium and Ocean aquarium 3
1.4 Aims and Objective 3
1.5 Need 4
1.6 Scope of project 4
1.7 Projec t Facilities 4
2 Zones of Ocean Aquarium 6
2.1 Entertainment Facilities 7
2.1.1 An underwater aquarium 7
2.1.2 Acrylic Tunnel 7
2.1.3 Construction Details 8
2.1.4 Aquarium Displays 8
2.1.5 Central Coral Reef Tank 8
2.1.6 Touch Pool 10
 2.1.7 Fresh water Section 10
2.1.8 Seashell Display 10
2.1.9 Invertebrate’s section 10
2.1.10 An Undersea Garden 11
2.1.11 Giant Tank Display 11
2.2 Education Facilities 12
2.2.1 An aqua museum 12
2.2.2 The fishing history 12
2.2.3 The fishery objects 12
2.2.4 The discovery lab 12
2.3 Fund and Recreational Facilities 13
2.3.1 Turtle Pond 13
2.3.2 Crocodile Pond 13
2.4 Research Facilities 14
3 Literature 15
3.1 Classification of Fishes 16
3.1.1 Agnathan 16
3.1.1.1 Subphyium Vertebreta 16
3.1.1.2 Characteristics of Agnatha 16
3.1.2 Chrondrichthyes 17
3.1.2.1 Subphyium Vertebreta 17
3.1.3 Osteichthyes 17
3.1.3.1 Subphyium Vertebreta 17
3.1.3.2 Characteristics of Osteichthyes 17
3.2 Fish Anatomy and Physiology 18
3.2.1 The Skin 18
3.2.2 The Swim Bladder 18
 3.2.3 Maintaining Salt Balance 19
3.2.4 Breathing Underwater 19
3.3 Fresh water aquarium vs Saltwater aquarium 20
3.3.1 Cost 20
3.3.2 Size 21
3.3.3 Water changes 21
3.3.4 Lighting 21
3.3.5 Color 22
3.3.6 Variety 22
3.3.7 Equipment 22
3.3.8 Aquarium Dynamics 23
3.3.9 Aquarium Furniture – Tanks & Stand 23
3.3.10 Hoods & Lighting 24
3.3.11 Filters & Media 24
3.3.12 Climate Control 25
3.3.13 Maintenance & Accessories 25
3.3.14 Water Additives 26
3.3.15 Decor 26
3.4 Factors affecting the Design 27
3.4.1 Planning 27
3.4.2 Circulation 27
3.5 Aquatic needs 28
3.5.1 Common Information about fishes 28
3.5.2 Feeding Information 28
3.5.3 Hygiene Care 29
3.5.4 Health Checkup 29
3.5.5 Temperature 29
 3.5.6 Lighting 29
3.6 Water Supply System 30
3.6.1 Open water system 30
3.6.2 Semi – Closed water system 30
3.6.3 Closed water system 31
3.7 Filtration and Life support system 31
3.7.1 Biological Filtration 32
3.7.2 Mechanical Filtration 32
3.7.3 Chemical Filtration 32
3.7.4 Material for construction of tank 33
3.8 Tank Dimensions 33
3.8.1 Tank Length 33
3.8.2 Tank width 34
3.8.3 Tank Height 35
4 Net Case Study 37
4.1 Georgia Aquarium 38
4.1.1 About 39
4.1.2 Georgia Explorer 40
4.1.3 Tropical Diver 41
4.1.4 Ocean Voyager 42
4.1.5 Cold Quest 42
4.1.6 River Scout 42
4.1.7 Dolphin Tales 42
4.1.8 Services 43
4.1.9 Advance Technologies 43
4.1.10 Feature 43
4.1.11 Number of Staffs 43
 4.2 Shanghai Ocean Aquarium 44
4.2.1 About the project 45
4.2.2 Floor plan 46
4.2.3 Detailed floor plan 47
4.2.3.1 Basement floor plan 47
4.2.3.2 Ground floor plan 48
4.2.3.3 First floor plan 49
4.2.3.4 Second floor plan 50
4.2.4 Different regions of Shanghai Ocean Aquarium 51
4.2.4.1 Deep sea region 51
4.2.4.2 Sea & Shore region 51
4.2.4.3 Austrian region 52
4.2.4.4 South East Asian region 52
4.2.4.5 Coldwater region 53
4.2.4.6 South American region 53
4.2.4.7 Polar region 53
4.2.4.8 China region 54
4.2.5 Services 54
4.2.6 Water Supply 55
4.2.7 Aquatic life support 55
4.2.8 Recommended Itinerary 55
4.2.9 Areas 56
4.2.10 Acrylic panel dimension 56
4.2.11 Inference 57
5 Live Case Study 58
5.1 VGP Marine Kingdom 59
5.1.1 Plan 61
 5.2 Taraporewala Aquarium 62
5.2.1 Location 62
5.2.2 Specification of areas 62
5.2.2.1 Main entrance 62
5.2.2.2 Main lobby 63
5.2.2.3 Water tanks 63
5.2.2.4 Amphitheater 63
5.2.2.5 Exhibition Area 64
5.2.3 Plan site 65
5.2.4 Area statement 66
5.3 Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Cochin 67
5.4 National Institute of Oceanography, Cochin 68
6 Comparative Analysis 69
6.1 Comparative analysis 70
7 Special Study 73
7.1 Aquarium Tunnel 74
7.1.1 Shapes of aquarium tunnel 74
7.1.1.1 Cylindrical aquarium tunnel 74
7.1.1.2 Optimized aquarium tunnel 75
7.1.1.3 Rectangular aquarium tunnel 75
7.1.2 Specification of areas 76
8 Area Statement 77
8.1 Area statement 78
9 Site Details 80
9.1 About mahabalipuram 81
9.1.1 Site selection criteria 82
9.1.2 Why mahabalipuram 84
 9.1.3 Site analysis 84
9.1.4 Accessbility 84
9.1.5 Places to visit in mahabalipuram 84
9.1.6 Site 86
9.1.7 Strength 86
9.1.8 Weakness 86
9.1.9 Opportunity 86
9.1.10 Threat 86
9.1.11 Land availability and design norms 87
9.1.12 Site uses 87
9.1.13 Land ownership 87
9.1.14 Types of sand 87
9.1.15 Land use map 88
9.1.16 Site pictures 88
9.1.17 Design Process 90
10. Reference 102
 ABSTRACT

The thesis project is on “OCEAN RESEARCH INSTITUTE & OCEAN

AQUARIUM”.

In India with more marine life species, there is no large-scale ocean aquarium and
research fab for fish conservation. Also, one of India’s oldest aquarium was built in
Chennai which was later destroyed in Tsunami. Also having ocean aquarium near
world heritage tourist sites, Ocean aquarium will have footprints from India as well
as from other countries. These are some of the main reason for this thesis project.
With site neat CRZ 3 (Coastal Regulation Zone 3) and 500m away from the high
tide line. The site area is 15acres with 300 x 200m boundary. The building was
designed in such a way it uses the wind speed and the solar energy by Roof and
pavilion structure for building performance.
 List of figures
Figure 1 …………………………………………..……………………………………… 2
Figure 2 Acrylic tunnel…….........………………..……………………………………… 7
Figure 3 Coral reef tanks..………………………..…………………………….………… 9
Figure 4 Touch pool…………….……………..……………………………….………… 9
Figure 5 Seashell display…………………………………………….…………………… 10
Figure 6 Invertebrates display…………………………………..….…………..………… 10
Figure 7 Undersea garden………………………………..…………….……..……………11
Figure 8 Giant tank……………………………..………………………………………… 11
Figure 9 Turtle pond…………………………..…………………..……………………… 13
Figure 10 Approach to site………………………………..……………………………… 38
Figure 11 Outside view of building facade…………………….………………………… 38
Figure 12 Tropical fish…………………………………………………………………… 39
Figure 13 Touch pool………………………………………………………..…………… 39
Figure 14 Georgia aquarium floor plan……………………………………………...…… 39
Figure 15 Georgia explorer…………………………………………………………….… 40
Figure 16 Tropical diver…………………………………………………………………. 41
Figure 17 Ocean voyager………………………………………………………………… 41
Figure 18 Cold quest……………………...……………………………………………… 42
Figure 19 River scout…………………………..………………………………………… 42
Figure 20 Dolphin tales……………………………...…………………………………… 43
Figure 21 Ariel view of shanghai ocean aquarium…..…………………………………… 44
Figure 22 Tunnel view of travellator……………………………………………...……… 45
Figure 23 Tunnel view of escalator……………….……………………………………… 45
Figure 24 Basement floor plan…………………………………………………………… 46
Figure 25 Ground floor plan……………………………………………………………… 47
Figure 26 first floor plan…………………………..……………………………………… 48
Figure 27 Second floor plan………………………………………………….…………… 49
Figure 28 Deep ocean region……………………………………………………………… 50
Figure 29 Sea and shore region…………………………………………………………… 51
Figure 30 Australia region………………………………………………………………… 52
Figure 31 Southeast Asian region….……………………………………………………… 52
Figure 32 Cold water region……………………………….……………………………… 52
Figure 33 South America region………………………………...………………………… 53
Figure 34 Polar region………………………………………………...…………………… 53
Figure 35 China region……………………………………………………..………………54
Figure 36 ………………………………………………………………………………… 54
Figure 37 ………………………………………………………………………………… 54
Figure 38 ………………………………………………………………………………… 54
Figure 39 ………………………………………………………………………………… 59
Figure 40 ………………………………………………………………………………… 59
Figure 41 ………………………………………………………………………………… 60
Figure 42 ………………………………………………………………………………… 60
Figure 43 ………………………………………………………………………………… 60
Figure 44 ………………………………………………………………………………… 60
Figure 45 ………………………………………………………………………………… 60
Figure 46 ………………………………………………………………………………… 60
Figure 47 ………………………………………………………………………………… 60
Figure 48 ………………………………………………………………………………… 61
Figure 49 ………………………………………………………………………………… 62
Figure 50 ………………………………………………………………………………… 62
Figure 51 ………………………………………………………………………………… 63
Figure 52 ………………………………………………………………………………… 63
Figure 53 ………………………………………………………………………………… 63
Figure 54 ………………………………………………………………………………… 64
Figure 55 ………………………………………………………………………………… 64
Figure 56 ………………………………………………………………………………… 64
Figure 57 ………………………………………………………………………………… 65
Figure 58 ………………………………………………………………………………… 67
Figure 59 ………………………………………………………………………………… 68
Figure 60 ………………………………………………………………………………… 70
Figure 61 ………………………………………………………………………………… 71
Figure 62 ………………………………………………………………………………… 72
Figure 63 ………………………………………………………………………………… 74
Figure 64 ………………………………………………………………………………… 75
Figure 65 ………………………………………………………………………………… 75
Figure 66 ………………………………………………………………………………… 75
Figure 67 ………………………………………………………………………………… 82
Figure 68 ………………………………………………………………………………… 82
Figure 69 ………………………………………………………………………………… 83
Figure 70 ………………………………………………………………………………… 85
Figure 71 ………………………………………………………………………………… 85
Figure 72 ………………………………………………………………………………… 85
Figure 73 ………………………………………………………………………………… 85
Figure 74 ………………………………………………………………………………… 86
Figure 75 ………………………………………………………………………………… 87
Figure 76 ………………………………………………………………………………… 88
Figure 77 ………………………………………………………………………………… 88
Figure 78 ………………………………………………………………………………… 88
Figure 79 ………………………………………………………………………………… 88
Figure 80 ………………………………………………………………………………… 88
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

In the process of completing this thesis proposal, a number of people have

helped along the way. The scholar wishes to express her appreciation towards
all the staff members who lent their helping hand.

The scholar is thankful to his honourable dean, Prof.A.Mohammed Haris,

for his continuous support and encouragement. He is also thankful to the
director of the campus, Mr.S.M.Hamid Ali.

The scholar would like to express his gratitude towards his principal,
Prof. H.Mohammed Idris for his guidance throughout the project. The
scholar is also thankful to his head of department, Prof.T. Sathish Kumar.

He is thankful to AR.SHARATH CHANDRA KANTH,

AR. S. PORCHELVI , AR. S .ANBARASI and other panel staff members
for their timely discussion, encouragement, unconditional guidance, support
and sincere advice throughout the completion of my project.

The scholar would like to convey his heartfelt thanks to all the people who
have helped through the case studies for the project, with relevant information
and assistance.

His sincere gratitude and thanks to his parents and family members, who stood
beside him as pillars of support, throughout, providing their continuous
motivation.

PRADEEP.K
 DECLARATION

I PRADEEP K (Reg. No. 311715251076) hereby declare that the project

report entitled “OCEAN RESEARCH INSTITUTE & OCEAN
AQUARIUM” done by me under the guidance of ……………….……..
(Internal) and …………………… (External) of Mohammed Sathak A J
Academy of Architecture, Chennai is submitted in partial fulfillment of
the requirement for the award of Bachelor of Architecture Degree, Anna
University, Chennai 600025.

DATE:
PLACE: SIGNATURE OF THE CANDIDATE
 CHAPTER – 1

INTRODUCTION

1. OCEAN AQUARIUM

2. PROJECT

3. DIFFERENCES BETWEEN AQUARIUM AND OCEAN AQUARIUM

4. AIMS AND OBJECTIVE

5. NEED

6. SCOPE OF PROJECT

7. PROJECT FACILITIES

[1]
 1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 OCEAN AQUARIUM:

An Ocean aquarium can be a marine mammal park as well as large scale aquarium
presenting an ocean habitat with marine life. An aquarium simulates a water habitat;
for instance a river lake or sea; but only the submerged area of these natural habitats.
“Establishments where collection of living aquatic animals and plants are exhibited or
studied.”

An object or place in which aquatic animals, principally fish are kept captive for public
or private exhibition. Saltwater aquarium for displaying animals and plant, particularly
oceanic, or pelagic, fishes and mammals. It serves as a center for public entertainment
and education and scientific study ocean aquariums are located in coastal areas. The
world largest ocean aquarium, now known as marineland, was completed in 1938 near
st. Augustine, fla, u.s.

Above are a few dictionary taken definitions of an ocean aquarium, as far as public
ocean aquariumare concerned they can be defined as “a building used for showing
collections of living fish water animals and plants.”

Figure 1

[2]
1.2 PROJECT:

The project is about the development of an “ocean aquarium.” As the name indicates,
it is related to the under water.

1.3 DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AQUARIUM AND OCEAN AQUARIUM:

Ocean aquariums are somehow more difficult to maintain than aquariums. Changes in
salinity conditions confound the relationships between temperature, acidity and oxygen
levels of an aquatic life support system. Ocean aquariums however have certain
disadvantages, many different species of fishes live in marine environments than in
freshwater, so a greater diversity of displays is possible. A saltwater environment
permits the holding of large and impressive animals which a person hardly gets to see
such as sharks, rays, piranha’s, sea turtles also seagoing mammals such as Dolphins,
whales, sea otter, etc.

Many ocean aquariums make full use of the availability of dolphins and whales that are
to be trained. They are trained for special aquatic shows that are to be performed in
front of live audience. A number of ocean aquariums are associated with research or
educational programs or universities, biological stations and marine institutes.
Arrangements may be reciprocal in that ocean aquariums can provide facilities for
student training or experiments while the academic or research units can contribute
specimens and professional advice about the care of marine organisms. In comparison
to an aquarium which is made in a small scale it does not have entertainment facilities
like an ocean aquarium has.

An aquarium does not have facilities to nature and take care of mammals like wales or
turtles. All aquarium also may or may not be affiliated with a university, also has
smaller tank of fresh water fishes and marine waster fishes. Ocenarium is comparatively
a better option in every aspect to meet the growing demands of the level of amusement
that people expect from such facilities and also the same time educate them.

1.4 AIMS AND OBJECTIVE:

Public ocean aquarium serves the purpose of recreation as well as education, or it

provides a platform for education through entertainment. Human beings believe in the

[3]
theory of out of sight out of mind providing a window towards the water world will
some, how create a soft comer for the species living there and will motivate us not to
harm their habitat.

For researchers and research institutes it provides vast research possibilities, which is
not only beneficial for them but also helps provide conversation possibilities for the
species.

1.5 NEED:

Living along the coastline brings the inhabitants with close contact to the sea every now
and then. Around the world we see development around the coasts small islands
countries earn a lot of money from tourism due to this coastal development. The reason
is the sea; the beaches are an attraction all around the world people through to beaches
during vacations Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand etc. are the finest example of this. They
realized the importance of the force of the sea and developed their waterfronts to the
international standards.

An Ocean aquarium is as an essential part of this sea front development as it tells us

that how beauty lies within this enigmatic sea. It is in itself a sea enclosed within an
edifice. It also helps the research work going on regarding the sea and its creature.
Conversation of species is the slogan of the ocean aquariums around the world. The
need for an ocean aquarium is stressed as it is not just a recreational spot it is a research
platform from where extensive researches on flora and fauna is conducted.

1.6 SCOPE OF PROJECT:

India is surrounded by sea on three side and has a large coastline on the southern side
in the Arabian sea. Rich in marine life countless marine species. Marine life is one of
the most important resource of the country and there is an increasing demand for the
development and conservation of our marine wealth. There is no state of art facility
available in the country for the appropriate scientific research and awareness. Help
develop tourism.

1.7 PROJECT FACILITIES:

An Ocean aquarium is a place where you can get to know and see the marine life and
all its beautiful and stunning aspects more closely. It includes all the usual and special

[4]
features to make it successful and attract and amuse visitors. Basically it consist of an
underwater aquarium with a unique and thrilling acrylic tunnel. A seafood restaurant
that has a large central round water tank.

An aqua museum that displays different species of fishes, invertebrates and also provide
history and knowledge about them. So to does not only provide entertainment related
to marine life but also covers a wide range of educational aspects and som e research
the water world but also seek and learn knowledge. The most entertaining facility is the
acrylic tunnel built under water. So it provides the visitor with a unique atmosphere.

Along with these informative aspects, the ocean aquarium also provides its visitors with
recreation facilities life dolphin pool, where dolphin shows are arranged to entertain the
visitors. Also has a touch pool where one can touch and feel the harmless creatures.
Thus an ocean aquarium is a place complete in itself, where one can enjoy how it feels
being under water without going through the learning process of scuba diving and the
fear of oxygen.

[5]
 CHAPTER – 2

ZONES OF OCEAN AQUARIUM

1. ENTERTAINMENT FACILITIES

2. EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES

3. FUN AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES

4. RESEARCH FACILITIES

[6]
 2 ZONES OF OCEAN AQUARIUM

Ocean aquarium basically covers the following three zones of facilities

• ENTERTAINMENT FACILITIES
• EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES
• FUN AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES
• RESEARCH FACILITIES

2.1 ENTERTAINMENT FACILITIES:

For this purpose, the ocean aquarium has an “underwater aquarium” which is the
primary factor of this project.

2.1.1 An underwater Aquarium:

• This is not an ordinary aquarium but it provides its visitors with a unique and
fascinating environment.
• It comprises of large coral reef tanks and several other glass cases and aquarium
to enjoy the sea life, displaying all varieties and species of idishes, reptiles,
amphibians, sea plants etc. It also includes a several feet long acrylic tunnel
through which one can move around and see the marine world very closely.

2.1.2 Acrylic Tunnel:

• The acrylic tunnel will be a nearly 350 feet long winding path. It will be made
of a semi circular acrylic through which the visitors can see the water world and
fishes at just a few centimeters distance.
• The acrylic tunnel will be nearly 4 meters high and 2 meters wide. At one side
of the tunnel be a conveyor belt or a moving travellator at particular distances.
So the visitors can just stand on the belt and go around the tunnel at a desirable
slow speed.

Figure 2

[7]
2.1.3 Construction Details:

• Just like any other tunnel, the sidewalls are made up of concrete, nearly three
feet high. The AC ducts are fixed on the sides and have inlets on it. As the name
indicates the tunnel is made up of acrylic glass, a special kind of glass mostly
used for display tanks and tunnels nowadays.
• The glass is heated at a certain temperature and is curved as requires. These
panels are than fixed over the concrete wall with the help of clamps and sealant
glues.
• Each acrylic panel is about one meter in length and is joined with the help of a
special marine sealant, or are welded together, or joined with a metal strip
tightened by nuts and bolts.
• The thickness of the glass depends upon the volume of the tanks and the water.
Handrails are provided at both ends for safety and comfort.

2.1.4 Aquarium Displays:

• The aquarium displays are spread throughout the building in all floors. These
aquariums not only contain fishes but also retiles, invertebrates and amphibians,
thus providing a wide variety.
• These are not just the simple usual types of aquarium but are designed with new
methods and techniques, thus allowing the aquarium’s viewing acrylic panel to
be arranged in different sizes and forms. This gives a break to the continuity of
the aquariums and Adds to the interest of visitors.
• Also the circulation area for the visitors is such provided that it does not follow
a same route or straight lines, but the interest to move around is enhanced with
curved pathways and varying widths of the corridor. This does not only break
the continuity but also and saves the visitors from following the same rout.
• The aquarium displays have the following galleries

2.1.5 Central Coral Reef Tank:

• At the entrance of the ocean aquarium is the majestic vertical central coral reef
tube, which extends to the other floors of the building as well.
• The magnifying effect of the narrow tube allows visitors to see the d istinct
features of the fishes as they swim past slowly.

[8]
 • Beautiful golden and diamond travel lies, tarpon, squirrelfish and rainbow
runners can be seen. There are also lots of smaller fishes, which orbit the
impressive central rockwork.
• The vertical tank allows following the fishers to the upper stories to lead the
visitors to more exhibits on other levels.

Figure 3

2.1.6 Touch Pool:

• Where one can touch and stroke the banded-bamboo shark and feel their rough-
textured skin as they glide past one’s skin, one can feed blue – spotted stingrays,
nodular sea stars, banded – bamboo sharks and porcupine puffers, all harmless
creatures.
• Its construction is carried out the same way as that for the turtles. All the harm
less creature are kept in a normal pool, with desirable temperature. Visitors
especially kids can touch and feel the skins of the creatures.

Figure 4

[9]
2.1.7 Fresh Water Section:

• It consists of fishes that thrive wholly in fresh water and which can grow up to
eight feet in length. It does not only have the biggest fish also the most
expensive fish in the world.

2.1.8 Seashell Display:

• Showcases more than 100 species of seashell from all over the world, in all
sizes, shapes and shades, this gallery also consists of large shell models to add
an interest and variety.

Figure 5

2.1.9 Invertebrate’s Section:

• Within the confines of specially built tanks, one will be able to encounter
unusual and peculiar tiny sea creatures, which even keen divers tend to miss.

Figure 6

[10]
2.1.10 An Undersea Garden:

A garden that is always moving with colorful reef fishes and vividly colored corals. It
will have a central coral reef tank with a corridor around it for the visitors to move
around it and several other small and large aquariums all displaying the features of the
garden.

Figure 7

2.1.11 Giant Tank Display:

• It is generally located at the central part of the building in order to attract the
visitors.
• To view this gallery, one has to move through 180 0 tunnel which passes from
the middle of the tank to view it from close.
• Another one can also view the gallery from outer side of tank to meet some of
the deadliest marine and fresh water animals in the world.
• One can stand face to face with a tank full of different species of shark & Manta
Rays. Generally the height of this tanks are up to 9 to 12 mts and comparatively
larger than others tanks.

Figure 8

[11]
2.2 EDUCATION FACILITIES:

The Ocean aquarium also provides the visitors with the educational facilities so that
they not only get entertainment but also get useful and interesting knowledge about the
underwater world and learn the exciting hidden stories behind them.

The following education facilities will be provided:

2.2.1 An Aqua Museum:

• A museum that is completely based on marine life providing the necessary

entertainment and education facilities to the visitors. It will have all the species
of fishes, crabs, reptiles, amphibians, seaweeds and sea plants etc.
• The museum basically has an awesome and dazing display of unusual marine
animals and some interesting features about them, like sea horse, sea dragons,
octopus etc.
• It gives a full informative knowledge about the entire marine life and ho w it is
conserved and utilized.

2.2.2 The Fishing History:

• This gallery gives a short introduction about how fishing was started in the early
days and how it was carried out in later years.
• It gives a detailed account of the various species of the fishes that were found
earlier, coming to the present day.

2.2.3 The Fishery Objects:

This gallery has a lots of information and guidelines for the fishermen, and people who
have to go fishing. It informs the visitors and interested people completely in order to
give then a clear slight of how the fishing should be carried out and what objects,
materials, clothing, and even what kind of food is given to the particular specie of fishes
to net them.

2.2.4 The Discovery Lab:

This laboratory is specially designed for visitor’s information in particular. Here the
visitors can get a chance to learn about the behavior of different sea animals and fishes
and even get to touch and feel them, and learn about their behavior.
[12]
A small research work is also carried out in here; this lab is open to pu blic as it is just
a small part of research laboratory, designed for the visitors to explore the marine
creatures.

2.3 FUND AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES:

These facilities include:

2.3.1 Turtle Pond:

• One can see turtles up close at the turtle pond, although turtles are very docile
and somewhat shy but they do come up to the water for air and food. One can
feed and even take photographs.
• The pond is placed inside the campus is basically just like a normal pool. A real
environment is provided to the turtles with the help of artificial rocks, pebbles,
seaweeds, plants and corals etc. even sand is provided to make the turtles feel
at home. The turtles move around freely and even come up for air.

Figure 9

2.3.2 Crocodile Pond:

• One can see crocodiles up close from a bridge at the crocodile pond or else can
see internal view of crocodile activity in the pond through acrylic panel glass
from inside of a building as pond remains connected with building next to it for
services.
• The pond placed inside the building is basically just like a normal pool. A real
environment is provided to the crocodile with the help of artificial rocks,

[13]
 pebbles, seaweeds, plants and corals etc. even sand is provided to make the
crocodiles feel at home. The crocodiles move around freely and even come up
for air.

2.4 RESEARCH FACILITIES:

• The project “ocean aquarium” also covers the research side in a small extent. It
doesn’t have a very big research center of its own but has proper service and
administrative sections to completely understand and conserve the marine life.
It has the following portions:
• Service floor
• Quarantine areas
• Water containers and pumps system
• Research vessel and laboratories

[14]
 CHAPTER – 3

LITERATURE STUDY

1. CLASSIFICATION OF FISHES

2. FISH ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY

3. SALT WATER v/s FRESH WATER AQUARIUMS

4. FRESH WATER AQUARIUM SETUP

5. FACTORS AFFECTING THE DESIGN

6. AQUATIC NEED

7. WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM

8. FILTERATION SYSTEM

9. MATERIAL FOR CONSTRUCTION OF TANK

10. TANK DIMENSIONS

[15]
 3 LITERATURE STUDY

3.1 CLASSIFICATION OF FISHES:

Fish the member of the Animalia Kingdom is classified into Phylum Chordata and
Vertebrata Subphylum. Fishes poses notochord, tubular nerve chord, paired gills,
segmentation of the body parts, post and tail, ventral heart, and an endoskeleton to be
the member of the Chordata. In order to be a vertebrate, it poses backbone. This back
bone supports and protects the spinal cord.

All the species of the fish found in the world are classified into the following three
groups.

Agnathan – jawless fish

Chrondrichthey – cartilaginous fish

Osteichthyes – bony fish

About 50 species of Agnatha fish, 600 species of Chrondrichthyes fish and 30,000
species of Osteichthyes fish are found in the world. Most of the fishes in th e bony group
belong to the ray finned group. According to the biologist there are about 70 fish orders
are found in the world.

Sharks and rays, sturgeon and gars, herring-like fishes, trout and salmon, eels,
minnows, suckers, and catfish, flying fish and relatives, cod-like fish, flatfish, seahorses
and relatives, mullets, silversides, and barracuda and mackerels and tunas are the main
group of fishes.

3.1.1 Agnathan:

3.1.1.1 Subphylum Vertebrata:

• Agnathan are jawless fish and lack paired fins. They also lack the internal
skeleton system. They have a circular tooth mouth (cyclostomic) by which they
bore the body of their victim and suck their blood. These are classified in to two
major types. They are Hagfish and Lampreys.

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3.1.1.2 Characteristic of Agnatha

• Jaws are absent

• Paired fins are absent
• Bony scales and skin plates were present in the ancient species but are absent in
the living species.
• Gill pouches are present. They have seven or more pouches
• Stomach is absent in the digestive system

3.1.2 Chrondrichthyes:

3.1.2.1 Subphylum Vertebrata:

• Fearsome predators and harmless molluse eaters are the members of the
chrondrichthyes. The member of the cartilaginous fish poses true bone and also
poses a skeleton made up of cartilage. Only the teeth of this species and rarely
the vertebrae are calcified. Sharks, Skates, and Rays make up the group of
chrondrichthyes.

3.1.3 Osteichthyes:

3.1.3.1 Subphylum Vertebrata:

• About 30000 species of bony fish are found in this class. Fishes that belong to
this species are spindle shaped, oval in section and flattened. Skins are protected
by protective scales. Some fishes of this category have actual lungs to breathe
and also have sharp eyesight. These bony fishes have a special gas filled
chamber called airbladder housed under the skeleton to allow them to remain
byoyant. Another adaptation is operculum, a bone on the sides of the fish to
protect the chambers that house the gills.
• Bony fish are again classified into ray finned and lobe finned fish. Ray finned
fish nave thin, flexible skeleton rays. Lobe finned fish have muscular fins
supported by bones. Bony fish fertilizes either internally or externally. Two
types of eggs are laid by the bony fish. They are the eggs that float and the eggs
that sink.

[17]
3.1.3.2 Characteristic of Osteichthyes:

• Have more or less bony skeleton and numerous vertebrae

• Mucous glands and embedded dermal scales are present in the skin Have paired
fins
• Aws are present
• Gill arches support the gills and are protected by the operculum.

3.2 FISH ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY:

There are few creatures on earth that have developed such an interesting and unique set
of physical characteristics as the fist. Their special adaptations have allowed them to
survive in an environment completely different than humans. Water is 800 times denser
than air. Water also contains less the 2% of the oxygen contained in the air. Sound and
light are very distorted in the water. Yet despite these difficult obstacles in life, fish
have some unique anatomical adaptations that allow them to flourish. If aquarium
owners have an understanding of these basic adaptations, it will help them to better care
for their fish.

3.2.1 The Skin:

Unlike most land dwelling animals, fish have evolved several unique traits in their
outside coverings including scales, Fins and protective mucous. Most fish have 7 fins,
although some have 6 and some 8. These fins allow fish to steer and move forward and
backward. Because water is 800 times denser than air, fish require a tremendous amount
of muscle strength and coordination. The powerful tail fin coupled with a large efficient
muscle-filled body givens the fish the necessary strength. On the outside of th e skin
most fish have compact rows of protective scales. These scales are firmly attached to
the skin and are primarily made of hard calcium. The scales offer unsurpassed
protection against injury and infection. Catfish have evolved without scales, but some
have hard bony plates and others have sharp spines in some of their fins that help keep
predators at bay. Over the tops of their scales, fish secrete a mucous covering. This
mucous is very effective at trapping and immobilizing bacteria and viruses and e ven
contains antibacterial – like agents that will help kill the trapped bacteria. Another
important trait of the mucous is to reduce friction and allow the fish to move through
the water more easily.

[18]
3.2.2 The Swim bladder:

The swim bladder is a unique organ found only in fish and is sometimes called the ‘air
bladder’. It is a smooth, gas-filled organ found in the abdomen of most fish. A fish will
either add to or decrease the amount of air in the bladder to help it move up or down in
the water. Without the air bladder, the fish would have to swim continuously to keep
from sinking to the bottom. By adjusting the amount of air in the bladder, fish can adjust
the depth at which they float and extend very little energy in the process. One other
benefit of the air bladder in some species is that it can be used to receive or emit sounds.

3.2.3 Maintaining Salt Balance:

As in people, maintaining the proper level of salt in the fish’s body is critical to proper
health. Fish face an exceptionally difficult challenge because they live in a watery
environment and tend to ‘leak’ a lot. The concentration of salt in a freshwater fish is
much higher than in the surrounding water, so salt is constantly leaking out of the fish
into the water. To compensate for this, fish have developed several solutions. The first
and foremost is that they ingest a very large quantity of water and as a result produce a
large quantity of urine (10-20 times as much as land mammals). Their kidneys extract
the small amount of salt from the – Ingested water and put it back into the fish’s
bloodstream. The other thing they have is an ion pump in their gills that actually helps
take salt out of the water and discharges ammonia and other undesirable products.
Saltwater fish have the same problem in reverse. For salt water fish, the sea water
contains a much higher concentration than what is in their bodies. As a result, salt leaks
in and the fish has to use its kidneys and ion pumps to excrete extra salt.

3.2.4 Breathing Underwater:

Breathing underwater is one of the most interesting adaptations of fish. Fish need
oxygen just like people, but the trick is getting the small amount of available oxygen
out of the water and into the bloodstream. The way that fish accomplish this is through
their gills. The gills contain thousands of tiny capillaries (blood vessels). Water is
constantly pumped over the gills through a combination of opening and closing the
mouth and muscular contractions that force water over the gills. The oxygen is absorbed
out of the water and goes directly into the bloodstream.

[19]
Water temperature can greatly affect the concentration of free oxygen in the water. As
the water temperature increases, the free oxygen concentration decreases. Stagnant or
poor quality water also contains less oxygen. A fish that becomes stressed or overly
excited in water that has low oxygen content can have severe respiratory difficulty and
can die. Because the air contains much more oxygen that the water, some people
question why fish cannot breathe out of the water. The reason is that the small delicate
lamellae (this branching structures) in the gills will collapse when the fish is out of the
water. This will make it impossible for oxygen to be absorbed. To determine how long
a fish can be kept out of the water, hold your breath when you take your fish out of the
tank. When you need to breathe, then so does your fish.

3.3 FRESHWATER AQUARIUM v/s SALTWATER AQUARIUM:

While we are generally breaking down the types of aquariums you can choose into two
large categories – freshwater or saltwater – there are actually several subcategories
within each of these larger options. These subcategories have a huge impact on aspects
of your tank such as cost and maintence.

For freshwater, some of the subcategories include:

• Planted tanks
• Biotope tanks
• Cichlid tanks (African or New World)
• Brackish tanks

Predator tanks

• For saltwater, the three main subcategories are:

• Fish-only tanks
• Fish-only with live rock tanks (FOWLR)
• Reef tanks

3.3.1 Cost:
When comparing freshwater and saltwater tanks, cost is what many people assume to
be the difference. There is a common perception that saltwater aquariums cost a good

[20]
deal more than freshwater ones. To be quite honest, this is generally the case. Saltwater
fish tend to be more expensive and these tanks tend to require additional equipment. If
you choose to incorporate them, corals can also add significantly to the cost of your
tank. All of these things need to be considered, but do realize that cost is relative.

For example, a reef tank is probably going to be the most expensive of the saltwater
aquariums. Therefore, if you wanted to keep the cost more in-line with a freshwater
tank, you could setup a fish-only or FOWLR tank. You could also do DIY projects for
much of the additional equipment required for saltwater tanks. On the flip side of this,
you can certainly make a freshwater aquarium very expensive. For example, if you have
a heavily planted tank, the additional lighting, carbon dioxide, and fertilizers can add
up fast. African cichlid tanks can requires huge amounts of rock that can be equivalent
to placing live rock in your tank in a saltwater setup.

3.3.2 Size:

It used to be the common belief that you could not have a saltwater tank under 50
gallons. With the rise in popularity of Nano tanks, however, this is clearly no longer the
case. In fact many manufactures are now making 10-30 gallon all-in-one units
(example: Nano Cube HQI) specifically for saltwater use. It remains true, however, that
larger tanks are easier to care for than smaller tanks due to increased water volume.
This being the case, there is no significant difference between keeping a freshwater or
a saltwater tank in regard to tank size.

3.3.3 Water Changes:

Saltwater tanks do require some additional work during water changes, mostly related
to the fact that you have to mix the saltwater beforehand. This can be time consuming
as the salt tends to dissolve slowly and requires you to buy a hydrometer to check the
salinity level. There are ways to make this process easier, however. One option is to
keep saltwater mixing continuously in a large bucket, heated with a heater and
circulated with a power head. Using this method, you will always have fresh water
available for water changes. Another option is to purchase pre-mixed saltwater from
the pet store, but this option is much more expensive. With freshwater aqu ariums, of
course, you do not need to mix saltwater. You do, however, need to treat the tap water

[21]
with a water with a water purifier to remove toxic chemicals that could endanger your
fish.

3.3.4 Lighting:

Saltwater lighting can get very expensive. Many corals require metal halide lighting
which is not only expensive to buy, but is also expensive to run. However, you can stay
away from high-light corals and stick with power compact lighting which is a good deal
cheaper than metal halide, but still more expensive than the “standard” fluorescent
lighting found in many freshwater aquariums. You could also choose a fish – only
aquarium where the only lighting requirement is what makes the fish look good. It
should also be noted that saltwater corals generally require actinic lighting (not to
mention the fact that this kind of lighting makes them really pop). Actinic lighting is
not often used in freshwater setups as plants do not benefit from that portion of the
spectrum and it can promote algae growth.

In the freshwater world, the planted tank is the only tank that really has a lighting
requirement and even in these tanks, compact fluorescents are the lighting of choice. In
all other freshwater aquariums, you only need the lighting that makes the tank and its
inhabitants suit your tastes. No matter what tank you choose, the size and quality of the
lighting system you utilize is your choice so, ultimately, you have control over how
much you spend.

3.3.5 Color:

There is simply no substitute for a reef aquarium in terms of color. It is just a fact that
there is more variety and a wider array of brightly colored fish and corals in the
saltwater world. The only thing that comes close, in my opinion, is an African cichlid
tank (people who do not know much about fish often mistake my cichlid tank for a
saltwater tank), but even these do not have the intense color differences found in a full
reef tank. There are some very colorful freshwater fish, of course, but the spectrum of
color seen in freshwater fish is very different from that seen in saltwater species.

3.3.6 Variety:

Again, the edge probably has to go to saltwater here. While there are certainly enough
fresh water species to ensure you never get bored, it just doesn’t compare to the huge

[22]
array of very different looking fish and invertebrates found in saltwater setups. Being
able to add ocrals and other odd creatures also adds to the variety found in saltwater
setups. With fresh water aquariums, however, you still have plenty of options in species
of fish that live at all levels of the tank – you also have your choice of invertebrates like
snails and even dwarf frogs.

3.3.7 Equipment:

Again, you can do a saltwater setup without a great deal of additional equipment, but
the average saltwater aquarium does usually use more equipment than a freshwater
setup. Examples of equipment many people use in the saltwater world that are not
required in freshwater include:

• Protein skimmer
• Hydrometer
• Salt mix
• Live rock
• Power heads (these can be found in many freshwater setups as well, but they
are generally not requiring there).
• Additional test kits (examples: alkalinity, calcium).
• Sump.

3.3.8 Aquarium Dynamic:

With saltwater aquariums, your tank is always evolving, when you put live rock or live
sand in your tank, hitch hikers come along and you just have no idea what to expect
next. Very rarely in the freshwater world (outside of snails coming with plants) do you
see inhabitants in your tank that were not purchased intentionally. It is really interesting
to sit and watch you saltwater tank to see what is new. Now, along with this comes a
negative because not all of these hitch hikers are good (examples: Aphasia, bristle
worms, mantis shrimps, etc.) It can be hard to remove some of these bad hikers which
can lead to added stress.

One benefit that freshwater tanks have over saltwater aquariums, however, is the fact
that freshwater fish are usually easier to breed. Cichlids, livebearers and other species
breed prolifically in the home tank with little to no encouragement from the aquarist.

[23]
Not only do you get to experience the joy of having new fish in your tank, but you also
get to watch courting and mating behaviors. Saltwater fish can be very difficult to breed
so you may not have as many chances to have these experiences if you don’t go with a
freshwater tank.

3.3.9 Aquarium Furniture – Tanks & Stands:

The size of your tank depends on a tot of different factors: how much space do you
have, how much weight can you manage (a gallon of water weighs nearly 9 lbs) and
most importantly what kind of aquatic life you want to keep. If your only limiting factor
is fish type, remember that most freshwater fish require at least one gallon for every
adult inch they are long; some species like gold fish require more.

TABLE 1

Furniture Type Description

Desktop tanks • Compact design and footprint.
• Ideal for a limited number of small fish.
• May include built – in filter and / or light.
Standard aquariums • May include built – in filter and / or light.
• Larger tanks requires strong stands for support.
• Glass or acrylic.
Kits • Includes tank and at least one of the following :
filter, hood, lamp, start-up conditioner, food.
• Filtration and lighting may be built into the system.
• Great for first – time aquarists.
Stands • Made with wood, metal or both.
• Reinforced designs to hold up heavy tanks.
• May include supply shelves.
Cabinets • Stands designed with closed cabinet and shelves for
storage.
• Discreetly hides food and maintenance equipment.
• Available in a variety of sizes to suit different
aquariums.
Canopy / Cabinet • Two – piece set for large aquariums
Combo • Cabinet holds supplies or equipment
• Canopies frame tank and allow access to waterline

3.3.10 Hoods & Lighting

Lights brighten your tank so you can enjoy your fish throughout the day. If y ou want a
planted tank, you may prefer certain types of lights over others. Some kits in clude hoods

[24]
and lamps, but you can always customize your own setup with different light fixtures
and bulbs.

TABLE 2

Hood & Lighting Description

Type
Hood • Covers tank to prevent fish escapes and
evaporation
• Often designed to house lights or bulbs
• Adjustable designs available
Fluorescent bulb • Most popular aquarium lighting choice
• Great for most freshwater aquariums
• Come in a wide variety of spectrums
• Some versions ideal for planted aquariums
Halide bulb • Ideal for planted aquariums
• May produce excess heat
• Requires special fixtures for proper use
Stands • Made with wood, metal or both
• Reinforced designs to hold up heavy tanks
• May include supply shelves
LED lamp • Typically longest lifespan of aquarium lighting
systems
• More energy efficient
• May allow for light color customization
Incandescent bulb • Inexpensive lighting option
• Easily found and replaceable
• Uses more electricity and produces more heat
compared to other bulb types

3.3.11 Filters & Media

Filters are key to keeping your tank clean and healthy. Determining the size of your
tank and the needs of your fish will help you decide what filter system to get. More
powerful filters are great for larger tanks while smaller tanks or more delicate fish may
require a less powerful filter.

TABLE 3

Filter type Description

Canister filter • External filter system with a variety of mounting
and installation options
• Powerful pump for large aquariums
• Three-stage filtration media can be replaced
separately

[25]
 Power filters • Standard over – the – edge tank filters
• Available in a variety of sizes
• Replace filter media as needed
Filter media • Mechanical filters strain debris, waste, uneaten
food, etc.
• Biological filters foster healthy bacteria that break
down ammonia and nitrites
• Chemical filters remove toxins that cause odor and
water discoloration

3.3.12 Climate Control

Freshwater fish have all different tolerances for water temperature. Some like it
tropically warm, and some like it cool. And it’s not just a matter of preference, their
environment impacts their health and behavior. Learn about the type of fish you want
to keep and what their ideal water temperature is. A thermometer and the right
equipment can help you keep your fish happy and healthy.

TABLE 4

Equipment Description
Thermometer • Helps you monitor water temperature
• In-tank or external options available
• Digital options available
Heater • Helps regulate tank temperature
• External and submersible heating options available
• Ideal for tropical tanks or cool climates
• Adjustable thermostats offer precise temperature
control
Chiller • Ideal for coldwater tanks or warn climates
• Typically used for larger tanks
• Expensive piece of equipment

3.3.13 Maintenance & Accessories:

TABLE 5

Equipment Description
Air pump systems • Oxygenates and circulates water
• Create a stream or curtain of bubbles
• Connect powered pumps to air stone with airline
tubing and check valve to prevent backflow.
Gravel vacuum • Cleans waste and detritus from substrate
• Change water while you clean
• Variety of sizes available to suit your tank
Algae pads • Cleans algae and other deposits on tank walls

[26]
 • Specially made to not damage tanks
• Pads available for both glass and acrylic tanks
Net • Makes moving aquatic life easy
• Designed to safely catch aquatic life
• Various sizes available to suit your aquatic life and
tank
Test kits • Measures pH, ammonia, nitrate and more
• Provides a snapshot of the health of your aquarium
• Scientifically accurate and easy to use

3.3.14 Water Additives:

Water right out of the tap isn’t ready of go into your tank. Conditioners, DE
chlorinators, beneficial bacteria and more help to transform your water into a fish-safe
environment.

TABLE 6

Additive Description
Algae removers • Helps to control algae blooms
• Keeps water clean and clear
Beneficial bacteria • Provides tanks with healthy live bacteria
• Supports natural processes like waste breakdown
and lank cycling
Chlorine & heavy • Neutralizes harmful chlorine from tap water
metal removers • Use when starting tank or preparing for water
changes
Ammonia & • Neutralizes harmful ammonia and chloramines
chloramines removers from tank water
• Condition water for new tanks or water changes
Live plant additives • Promotes growth in planted aquariums
• May include fertilizers and nutrients
pH Conditioners • Increases or decreases tank water pH
• Ideal for fish that prefer slightly acidic or alkaline
water
Clarifiers • Eliminates cause of cloudy water
• Conditions tank water

3.3.15 DECOR
When all the essentials are in place, it’s time to add the bells and whistles. Decorate
your tank with ornaments, silk plants, backgrounds and substrate of all colors to create
a completely unique look for your aquarium inhabitants.

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 TABLE 7

Decor Types Description

Resin, rock & • Wife variety of shapes, sizes, colors and designs
driftwood ornaments • Can provide hideaways or cover for fish
• Provides interest and enrichment for fish
Artificial Plants • Plastic and silk fish-safe plants
• Creates a more natural look without the
maintenance requirements of live plants
• Wide variety of sizes, shapes and colors
Backgrounds • Adheres to the back wall of tank
• Choose from natural or fun scenes
• Gives the impression of depth and texture
Gravel & Substrate • Variety of textures, shapes and colors
• Provides a surface for beneficial bacteria to
colonize
• Sand, gravel and artificial substrates available

3.4 FACTORS AFFECTING THE DESIGN:

An ocean aquarium involves more complex site design than that of an aquarium. It is a
complex that generated a stimulating environment where people can observe marine
life in its natural habitat with the complete underwater landscape.

3.4.1 PLANNING

A well designed ocean aquarium must incorporate smooth facilitation of process and
smooth circulation of people since there are chances of it being crowded so that spaces
must be well designed and spacious. There are mainly 2 types of area:

• Public Area – Area with the most circulation consisting of all exhibits and the
recreational area
• Services Area – All the area required for maintaining the display area for the
proper functioning of ocean aquarium. This area should be usually kept out of
sight of the visitors.

3.4.2 CRICULATION

• Main principle includes convenience, safety and aesthetics. Convenience

suggests speed when desired. Easy smooth working of various operations
medical checking guaranteeing to be provided from acoustical and visual
nuisance.

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 • A well designed Ocean aquarium must provide enough space for smooth
circulation of various process involved in running, adequate things, efficient
ventilation and satisfactory sound insulation. Scientifically perceived scheme of
setting up the tank in harmony with the surroundings to please the visitor’s eye.
• Attention should be given for various necessary operations – such as incoming
specimens their medical checking and quarantining if necessary.
• It is important that the exit is convenient to public and should not open into an
area which would lead to their confusion and should not open near the services
area. It should open into an open area in case of any emergency.

3.5 AQUATIC NEED:

3.5.1 Common Information About Fishes:

• Ph value of the water should be checked regularly (ph at 7.2 to 8.5)

• Temperature should not be more than 280c.
• Pool should be designed in a way that rapid filling and emptying can take place.
Water of the pool should be kept separate from the waste water of the soil and
roof run offs.
• Salinity checks should take place at timely intervals and should be between 18
to 36 gms
• Bacterial content of the pool should be monitored and should be kept low as
much as possible it should not exceed 50 per 1000 ml.
• Total filtration turnover time should not exceed 4 hours.

3.5.2 Feeding Information

• Food chart should be maintained, where diet of each fish is noted down.
• Every species of fish have different diet and food should be given accordingly,
they should be fed at least once in 3 days.
• Food given to small fishes living in large groups should be measured in grams
and an account of the amount of food given should be kept.
• Food should be of wholesome and of standard quality it should have the
nutritional value to keep the fish healthy.

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 • Food should be prepared with care that no bacterial contamination takes place
food kept in freezer should be kept at 280 c and should be used at the appropriate
time, care should be taken that the food does not expire.

3.5.3 Hygiene Care

• All the wall’s and the floors should be cleaned on daily basis, no food particles
should re-main at the bottom of the tanks.
• Water should be clean for the fishes.
• Kitchen area should be washed daily and all the utensils should be cleaned on
daily.

3.5.4 Health Checkups

• Programs to measure illness prevention and control must be set up regularly.

• Fishes should be observed, the way they swim or the change of skin color or
diet may suggest illness.
• Newly arrived dolphins should be kept apart from others until good health is
assured.
• Isolation pools must be set up for ill or sick fishes.
• A health record for fishes should be kept with all the required data.
• An autopsy should be carried out by a vet when an animal dies.

3.5.5 Temperature:

• For economic reasons, it is desirable to maintain an even temperature

throughout the Ocean aquarium and is best for the health of fish.
• Most fishes need temperature of 74-78 degree Fahrenheit depending on the
season. Temperature of 72f (260c – 280c) is compatible for visitors and will
permit automatic maintenance of display tanks at same temperature.
• Avoid mercury thermometer cause it might break and passion the tank.
• During winters heaters and during summers coolers shall be used.
• Water circulation must be sufficient to diffuse heat evenly. This circulation must
be maintained either by aeration or by and adequate number of fishes active
enough to ensure this.
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3.5.6 Lighting

• Lighting is very important for an aquarium and is always neglected having the
appropriate
• Light stimulates natural daylight in the tank.
• Florescent lights the best light in the tank they don’t let the fish go awol, they
are also very easy to install n make feeding n cleaning of the tank very easy.
Avoid incandescent lights as they give of too much heat which could stress the
fish as well as evaporates more water from the tank.

3.6 WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM

There are 3 types of water supply system

• Open water system

• Semi-closed water system
• Closed Water System

3.6.1 Open Water System

In open systems the water flows through the aquarium once and is discarded. This
provides water quality comparable to that of the natural environment and there is no
buildup of toxic metabolic wastes, however, temperature control and pumping are
usually costly and filtration often is necessary. Hence an open system is not preferred.

3.6.2 Semi-Closed Water System

• Semis closed are the same as closed systems except that there is a constant
connection

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 • To the water supply and the problem of dissolved wastes is controlled by the
regular addition of new water, this system is more economical that the open type
in terms of temperature control and pumping.

3.6.3 Closed Water System

• Water is continuously re-circulated in closed systems and is only renewed

periodically. Metabolic wastes must be treated since they are not continuously
flushed from the system. An import ant problem is that ammonia must be
rapidly removed or transformed because it is harmful even at very low
concentrations. In the aquarium the bacteria that converts ammonia to nitrite
reside primarily in the filter material and a slow sand filter with a large surface
area is usually provided to ensure their abundance.
• Plant growth in the aquarium, especially in marine systems are not usually
sufficient to utilize the entire nitrate produced by bacteria from nitrite. Although
some aquariums have operated many years with a minimum of water renewal it
is normally necessary to replace from 1 to 10% of the water per month to
maintain a low level of nitrates.
• The use of charcoal in both fresh water and seawater system helps to slow down
the accumulation of nitrogenous wastes. Metabolic wastes also cause an
increase in the acidity of water. Carbonate compounds are commonly used to
maintain an optimal level of acidity, particularly.

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3.7 FILTERATION AND LIFE SUPPORT SYSTEMS

In nature tidal fluctuations, current, incorporation by plant and algae life and many other
processes help in the removal of animal wastes. A sustainable life support technology
must rely upon the principles of water mechanical.

3.7.1 Biological filtration

It is the conversion of the nitrogenous wastes such as ammonia (NH3) or nitrate (N02)
into less harmful nitrates or nitrogen gas. This is accomplished through the action of
the bacteria living on suitable substrate such as gravel bed or plastic structures called
bio-media.

3.7.2 Mechanical Filtration

It is the removal of the dissolved suspended particles from the water by some type of
filter of medium such as sand or floss, a rapid sand.

Filter is an example of mechanical filtration as it uses a layer of sand and fine coal to
stop particles.

3.7.3 Chemical Filtration

It is the removal of the dissolved organic compounds. Dissolved organic materials can
cause the water to have a yellowish appearance. This is remedied by using and activated
carbon filter, a foam fractional or ozone. Many harmful compounds and medications
can be removed through chemical filtration.

When it comes to creating a healthy environment for marine fish, mammals & inverted
brat’s biological filtration is by far the most critical consideration. While chemical and
mechanical filtration plays important roles they are primarily supplemental to and
supportive of the biological process.

[33]
The best designs should not only result in the crystal clear water that every visitors and
curator wants to see, but also the stable and sustainable water quality that closely
parallels a natural aquatic environment. Indicators of a stable environment can be
Indentified, by but are not limited to common water quality criteria, including water
temperature. Indicators of a stable environment can be identified by, but are not limited
to, common water quality criteria, including water temperatures dissolved oxygen, pH
and dissolved organic carbon (DOC). While these are common water quality indicators,
the life support engineer knows how the design approach will change when creating a
system that must sustain animals as diverse as a delicate moon jellyfish and a 1,500
pound manatee.

3.7.4 Material for Construction of Tank

• Acrylic is half the weight of glass. It is easier to ship, move and set up.
• Acrylic is stronger than glass and will not shatter or leak like glass.
• Acrylic distorts much less and is clearer than glass.
• If the temperature objects is surrounded by another material that has the same
index of refraction will take place, and the object will appear invisible and
without distortion even at increased viewing angles.
• Reflections also don’t take place inside an acrylic. Glass in other hand has a
slight tint and the refractive index of glass is different than water so distortion
happens where in acrylic has the same refractive index as water so the view is
much clearer.
• The huge clear acrylic used as the viewing window is about 12 inches thick.
• Acrylic are also very good because they provide light to penetrate inside which
is good for the coral reef system.
• Acrylic is also used because it does not allow water temperature fluctuation.
• Acrylic is also used because it has a better molecular bond than glass. Any
custom made shape can be made out of acrylic sheet.

3.8 Tank Dimensions

[34]
3.8.1 Tank Length

This is the most important factor in a tank, since it is the dimension which will keep
fish as far apart as possible and give them enough space to swim around in the tank
especially for cruise predators. The tank should have a minimum of 5 x adult fish body
length (FL) as its long dimension with 20 cm of fish length being the bare minimum. A
further 20-50% extra length should be added if the fish is a cruise predator (30%) or of
it is extremely aggressive (+20%), Factors of 1.3, 1.2 and 1.5 respectively. If a fish is a
poor swimmer, then we can get along with just 5 x without any additional length despite
the aggression factor.

Proper information must be acquired of the species which are going to be exhibited in
the tank. An extra 10-20% in the L value (Factor 1.1-1.2) should be added if more than
one specimen of the same species has to be kept in the tank. One should also consider
that unlike mammals for instance fishes have indeterminate growth. The fish’s growth
slows down eventually but it will continue to grow as long as it lives. Therefore a
confirmed maximum size may be routinely exceeded in captivity, and this too shall be
allowed for in sizing the tank. On the other hand for a really mild mannered fish kept
in a peaceful community tank one can reduce the 5 x factor to 4 x but it should be
ensured that the fish.

Doesn’t become aggressive. One cannot house a predator with its natural prey in the
same tank will not save the later no matter what the tank volume is.

Thus for a single specimen, where

L Tank Length

FL Expected maximum fish length

Peaceful fish, peaceful tank mates : L = FL x 4

Aggressive fish, good swimmers : L = FL x 5 x 1.2

Aggressive fish, poor swimmers : L = FL x 5

Aggressive fish, cruise predators : L = FL x 5 x 1.5

Mild temperament, cruise predators : L = FL x 5 x 1.3

[35]
Pair of aggressive fish, cruise predators : L = FL x 5 x 1.5 x 1.2 t

3.8.2 Tank width

The tank should have a minimum of 1.2x adult fish body length as the width. With fish
which have a body width over 5 cm, the factor should be 1.3 x adult fish length while
for fish body over 10 cm the factor should be 1.4 x For any additional 10 cm in body,
the factor should be increased by 0.1. Thus a red tail catfish with a body width of 30 +
cms should have a factor of 1.6 x (Since the adult fish has a length of 120 cm, this
becomes a 192 cm width). The resulting values take the volume occupied by common
aquascaping into account.

Thus for a single specimen, where

W Tank width

FL Expected maximum m fish length

Fish body width < 5 cm : W = FL x 1.2

5 cm < Fish body width < 10 cm : W = FL x 1.3

10 cm < fish body width < 20 cm : W = FL x 1.4

Fish body width – 40 cm : W = FL x 1.7

3.8.3 Tank Height

For height it is recommended a bare minimum of 20 cms and then to add up 2.5 x Fish
body height (FH) for a fish body height of less than 5 cm and 3.5 x for fishes with a
body height over 5 cms. For a fish that stays at the bottom a factor of 2 x Bo dy height
should be used.

Thus for a single specimen, where

H Tank Height

FH Expected maximum fish height

Fish body height < 5 cm : H = 20 cms + (FH x 2.5)

Fish body height > 5 cm : H = 20 cms + (FH x 3.5)

[36]
Fish body height < 5 cm : H = 20 cms + (FH x 2)

e.g. Cat fish or Freshwater Ray

Fish body height > 5 cm : H = 20 cms + (FH x 2)

e.g. Stingrays

Thus for fish over 20-25 cms in adult body length the tank size should be calculated by
the formula L x W x H as previously described.

L = 70 x 5 x 15 = 525 cms
W = 98 cms

H = 90 cms

Result = 4,630 liters

Pair = 5,093 liters

But a tank for same species which is usually aggressive but not a good swimmer then
formula gives:

L = 50 x 5 =250 cms

W = 60 cms

H = 60 cms

Result = 900 liters

For a pair additional 10% should be added which gives a result of 990 liters.

If more than one species are to be kept together then calculations should be made
separately for each species and then choose the largest volume as the correct one,
provided that the species are compatible. What we get is of course the right tank for the
species demanding the most volume. Then add 5-10% water volume for each additional
individual.

The need of a manual override of the above formulas in the case of a species with a
specific, odd or unique requirement when kept in captivity. A good example of this is
the elephant nose fish. This species will reach a final length of 35 cms and should be
housed in a tank with a length of approximately 80 cm. This kind of tank usually has a
capacity of 75-80 liters of water. However this species is a schooling fish and is found

[37]
in fairly large schools of nature. Keeping less than 6 individuals in tank will be most
probably result in increased intra specific aggression and territorial behavior. Keeping
six or more of them will spread this behavior equally among them and therefore there
will be fewer fights in the tank. Keeping six of those fished in 80 liters’ tank is not an
option. The fish is carnivorous and six of them will present an enormous bio load that
will challenge any filtration system.

Therefore, some crucial factors for estimating the tank size that will keep some species
thriving in captivity for many years. This will help scientist study their behavior and
the patterns they follow furthermore.

CHAPTER – 4

NET CASE STUDY

1. GEORGIA AQUARIUM, USA

2. SHANGHAI OCEAN AQUARIUM, CHINA

[38]
 4 CASE STUDY

4.1 GEORGIA AQUARIUM

Project : Georgia Aquarium

Location : Atlants,

Georgia, U.S.

Architect : PVAG

Architects
Area : 36421 sq. mt

Floor : 2

Built year : 21.08.2002 – 23.11.2005

Total Species : 700

Figure 10

Site Layout

Figure 11

[39]
The site plan of Georgia Aquarium consists of a single building in a 9 acres of land
surrounded by a mix landscape over its one side and having a multilevel parking
provided at the back of the building.

4.1.1 About

• The Georgia Aquarium houses 120,000 animals, representing 700 species, in

8.5 million US gallons (32,000 m3) of marine and fresh water. It was the world’s
largest ocean aquarium when it opened in 2005.

Figure 12 Figure 13

Figure 14

[40]
 • Its features a number of touch pool tanks with ray and shark as well as exhibits
featuring sea turtles and the wildlife of gray’s reef-a national marine sanctuary
off the Georgia coast.
• There are six different galleries exhibited.

The six galleries are:

1. Georgia Explore
2. Tropical Driver
3. Ocean Voyager
4. Coldwater Quest
5. River Scout
6. Dolphin Tales

4.1.2 Georgia Explorer

• Visiting the California sea lions in “Georgia Explorer”, a new exhibit that
highlights this charismatic species.
• Trainers will interact with this notably social species of pinniped while
educating guests on the dangers the face in the wild

Figure 15

4.1.3 Tropical Divers

• Escape to the tropics and engage your guests in the relaxing and intimate menu
as they are mesmerized by one of the largest living reef exhibits in the world.
• The living corals and thousands of tropical reef fish in this gallery represents a
coral reef ecosystem in the tropical Pacific, compete with an overhead crashing
wave.

[41]
 Figure 16

4.1.4 Ocean Voyager

• While walking through an acrylic tunnel or standing in front of a gigantic acrylic

viewing window, and visitor will fell like a scuba diver in an endless blue sea,
mesmerized by thousands of fish swimming overhead.
• Ocean Voyager is home to the gentle giants of the sea, including whale sharks
and manta rays

Figure 17

4.1.5 Cold Quest

• Transport the visitors to the Arctic as they experience a reception or seated

dinner among the chilly unknown.
• The coldest ocean teems with wildlife like the weedy sea dragon, beluga whale,
giant pacific octopus and Japanese spider crab.

[42]
 Figure 18

4.1.6 River Scout

• Rivers are a source of life for animals and people throughout the world
• In the River Scout gallery, visitor will discover the wide diversity of animals
found in the rivers and lakes of Africa, South America, Asia and the state of
Georgia.

Figure 19

4.1.7 Dolphin Tales

• Dolphin Tales is a high energy, fun and exciting experience.

• In this live presentation, the dolphins at Georgia Aquarium show case some
impressive behaviors and demonstrate their relationships with their trainers
while incorporating an educational message about bottlenose dolphins.

[43]
 Figure 20

4.1.8 Services

• The water pipes of 24” at 3m /c/c on periphery and 62” at the bottom are
installed.
• The lighting is been done at the bottom and at the top by using lamps.
• The maintained is been check by a bay been running over the I – section
installed to the roof structure.

4.1.9 Advance Technologies

• The construction of the Aquarium presented many challenges to radio signal

coverage.
• Basically, the Aquarium is a hollow structure, constructed of steel reinforced
concrete walls up to four feet thick, surrounding an expansive main atrium with
a 50 foot high ceiling.
• The animal habitats, clustered around the main atrium, require more than eight
million

4.1.10 Feature

• Its feature living corals and thousands of colorful reef fish in a recreating
tropical pacific coral reef, completed with overhead crashing wave.
• It features an overhead river where visitors can see north American fishes from
the bottom up in addition to local specimens this exhibits displays
• Piranha, electric fish and other unusual freshwater life.

[44]
4.1.11 Number of staff

More than 500 full-time and part-time employees and 2,000 volunteer staff members
keep the Aquarium operating on a seven-day a week schedule that also includes unique
guest overnight stay events and a kinds’ conservation education program. Operations,
security, education, maintenance, veterinary and staff training, a dministration
personnel.

Fun Facts about the Georgia Aquarium

The Aquarium’s filtration system contains more than 70 miles of pipe, enough to more
than encircle the city of Atlanta on the 1-285 loop.

The heating and air conditioning system has 4300 tons of cooling capacity, enough to
cool over 1400 average-sized homes. Plumbing systems include 290 plumbing fixtures;
200 floor drains and 53 roof drains.

The Georgia Aquarium’s habitats hold the equivalent water volume to more than 100
million cans of Coke.

The drains are connected by 1.5 miles of underground pipe and 5.5 miles of
aboveground pipe.

Approximately 230 newly constructed average – sized American homes can fit inside
the Georgia Aquarium.

In the Aquarium’s life support systems, there are 506 p umps using over 5,500
horsepower to move more than 300,000 gallons of water every minute. The water is
moved through 187 sand filters, 91 protein skimmers and 76 towers.

[45]
4.2 SHANGHAI OCEAN AQUARIUM

Figure 21

Figure 22 Figure 23

4.2.1 About The Project

• This prestigious project was competed in 2002, and is located immediately

adjacent Shanghai’s most significant tourist attraction the Oriental Pear Tower
in Pudong, shanghai.
• The theme, “Across Continents through Worlds of Water” captures the essence
of the broad scope of exhibits on display in the facility.
• Beginning with the China Zone, visitors pass through representative countries
of South America, Australia, Africa and the temperate zones that show
coldwater fish and later, penguins.
• The sea provides the theme for the second phase of the visitor’s experience
where they view some of the more unusual life from color changing giant

[46]
 cuttlefish and baby sharks to the giant Japanese spider crabs and the miniature
seahorses of the seaweed forest.
• The climax of the visitor’s experience is the showcase ocean aquarium
consisting of 120 met of travellator passing through five contrasting marine
environments; the coastal reef, the open ocean, the kelp cave, shark cove, and
the coral reef. This awesome experience is one of the longest aquarium tunnel
exhibits in the world.

4.2.2 Floor Plan:

Figure 24

[47]
4.2.3 Detailed Floors Plan:

4.2.3.1 Basement Floor Plan:

Figure 25

[48]
4.2.3.2 Ground Floor Plan:

Figure 26

[49]
4.2.3.3 First Floor Plan:

Figure 27

[50]
4.3.3.4 Second Floor Plan:

Figure 28

[51]
4.2.4 Different Regions of Shanghai Ocean Aquarium

This Aquarium is basically divided into 8 regions namely

1. Deep Ocean Region

2. Sea And Shore Region
3. Australia Region
4. Southeast Asian Region
5. Cold Water Region
6. South America Region
7. Polar Region
8. China Region

4.2.4.1 Deep Ocean Regions

Descending into the depths of the ocean you are transported along one of the world’s
longest travellators as you enjoy the panoramic view offered by our underwater viewing
tunnels. Experience the spectacular marine life in close proximity as you complete the
final leg of your “underwater journey”.

Figure 29

4.2.4.2 Sea and Shore Region

[52]
This display contains an astonishing variety of marine species, many of them very
colorful and each with their own unique characteristics. Among them visitors will find
the Horseshoe Crab also known as a “Living Fossil”, the shy but beautiful Weedy Sea
dragon

Figure 30

4.4.3 Australia Region

There are hundreds of different species of fresh water fish in Australia and most of them
cannot be found in any other country in the world. This is because millions of year ago
the Australian continent has been separated from other land masses, thus the f ishes
living there could not crossbreed with the fishes from other continents.

Figure 31

4.4.4 Southeast Asian Region

The Southeast Asian tropical rainforest is one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests,
high forest coverage, the magnificent natural landscape and rich biodiversity, rich food
and an ideal habitat for biological living here ground.

[53]
 Figure 32

4.4.5 Cold Water Region

The Cold Water Zone is made up of one single display tank that houses our spotted
seals. The half-arch shape of this acrylic tank is another unique design in our aquarium,
and enables visitors to observe the spotted seals f rom an underwater viewing
environment.

Figure 33

4.4.6 South America Region

South America has the largest type and quantity of freshwater fish.

Arapaima as one of the largest freshwater scaly bony fish also thrived here

Figure 34

[54]
4.4.7 Polar Region

With the cold icy wind blowing across your face as you climb over the white – snow-
covered mountains, you know you have arrived at the Polar Zone to meet our cute and
cuddly penguins.

Figure 35

4.4.8 China Region

Shanghai Ocean Aquarium is the only aquarium in the world which has a separate area
to display endangered Chinese aquatic animals. Exhibit species include, for instance,
the Chinese Sturgeon, Chinese Suckerfish, Yangtze Alligator and Chinese Giant
Salamander

Figure 36

4.2.5 Services

• Ground level constitute the overall service area of shanghai ocean aquarium
along with the extra supporting area on each floor.
• Services provided included architectural design and documentation, co -
ordination of aquarium specialist works requirements, interior design if exhibit
spaces, design of graphics and interpretive panels, preparation of tender

[55]
 documentation for aquarium specialist works, interiors and special exhibitory.
Contract administration of specialist works.

Figure 37 Figure 38

4.2.6 Water Supply

• Water is being distributed the overhead hanging pvc pipes needing at least a free
space of 3 m above clear height. It has closed filtration system.
• Instead of direct sunlight fluorescent tubes and large neon lamps are been used
all time in accordance to diurnal and nocturnal usage.
• Plant is being setup at basement adjacent to the main building and duct are
exposed to the surrounding as a interior treatment. The supporting area are kept
with special provision for both heating and cooling.
• The walls from the inner side have high acoustic
• Treatment so that the sound of water flowing through and working staff doesn’t
travel outside at the galleries arena.
• To limit the consumption of water, the 8 million gallons (30283 kl) of tanks in
the aquarium use a semi – closed system with manufactured sea water which
allows as much water as possible to be reused.
• Water is replaced from local sources only when required due to evaporation.

4.2.7 Aquatic Life support

• 6.2 million (23 470 kl) gallons to fill open ocean tank
• 54 in. (1.4 m) diameter piping
• 218 pumps (4,160 hp (3102 kW] to circulate 261,000 gpm (16 469/s])

[56]
 • 4,035 valves
• 25 miles of wiring

4.2.8 Recommended Itinerary

• After buying tickets on the first floor, visitors start the tour of the main building
by going up to the third floor, ultimately making their way down to the
basement.
• The third floor has seven exhibition area, i.e. the VIP hall, science education
room and a waterfall. The China, South America, Australia zones and Special
Exhibitions Zone are also located on this floor.
• The second floor has the Africa, Southeast Asia, Cold Water and Polar Zones,
The Sea and Shore exhibit is also located here.
• The basement is the main part of the aquarium where Deep Ocean Zone is
located. The submarine viewing tunnel enables visitors to have a wonderful tour
here.
• After touring the basement, visitors any return to the first floor for meals and to
purchase souveniors and gifts.

4.2.9 Areas

Site Area – 8,400 m2

Building Are – 20,000m2 over 5 Levels

Major Exhibits Area

Coastal Reef, Kelp Cave, Shark Cove -2,200 m3
Coral Reef Aquarium -700m3
Open Ocean -330 m3
Under The Amazon -240 m3
Exhibit Tank -650 m3
Australian Billabong -217 m3
Under The Coldwater Stream -110 m3
Penguin Encounter -100m3

[57]
 Chinese Alligator – Ancient Survivor -25 m3
Endangered Chinese Freshwater Fishes -65 m3
Various Small Marine And Fresh Water -19 in total 10-50 m3 typically
Aquariums

4.2.10 Acrylic Panel Dimension

Tanks Dimensions
Coastal Reef, Kelp Cave, Shark Cove 66.0 x 2.4 m
180 0 tunnel:
Coral Ref Aquarium – 180 0 tunnel : 23.0 x 2.4m
Open Ocean – Flat Panel : 8.0 x 4.65 x 0.27 m
Under the Amazon – 180 0 tunnel: 12.0 x 2.4 m
Australian Billabong Inclined 1800 12.0 x 2.4 m
tunnel:
Flat Panel: 9.0 x 1.6 x 0.08 m
Under the coldwater Stream – 90 0 tunnel: 9.6 x 0.75 mR
Penguin Encounter – Flat Panel: 10 x 2.9 x 0.12 m
Chinese Alligator – Ancient Survivor: 5.0 x 1.83 x 0.07 m
Cantilevered Panels: 4.2 x 2.0 x 0.09 m
Endangered Chinese Freshwater Fishes 3.0 x 1.4 x 0.07 m
Flat Panels:

4.2.11 Inferences

The basic challenge for designing the aquarium was dealing with the extremely
technical nature of the designs while meeting the client requirement for a creative
theme. The team continually balanced creativity with practicality. The result is a world
– class aquarium with a safe and comfortable environment for animals and humans.

[58]
 CHAPTER – 5

LIVE NET CASE STUDY

1. VGP MARINE KINGDOM

2. TARAPOREWALA AQUARIUM

3. CENTRAL MARINE FISHERIES RESEARCH INSTITUTE, COCHIN

4. NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF OCEANOGRAPHY, COCHIN

[59]
5.1 VGP Marine Kingdom

LOCATION : Chennai, India

YEAR OPENED : 2017
SQUARE METERS: 7,500

Aquamarine is an International
Design, Specialist Construction
and Management company
based in New Zealand

VGP Marine Kingdom will be India’s first major public aquarium. Set in the VGP
World Theme Park in the resort area of Chennai, the aquarium will serve the dual
purpose of entertainment and education. VGP Marine Kingdom will be this first of
many commercial Aquariums in India.

The complex will include a restaurant, educational opportunities and exhibition areas.
The total area for the Aquarium is 7,500 sq mts in 5 different
concept zone and spread over three levels, there will be a underwater tunnel which is
48 meters long it’s over 30 display aquarium tanks and 4.000.000 liters of water
volume.

We specialize in the design and construction management of Family Entertainment

centers, Commercial aquariums, Luxury
Resorts, Water Parks, Botanical Gardens, Discovery Centers, new attractions and
many other architecture and design solutions.

[60]
The freshwater fish are from mainland India. The marine fish – which include sharks,
rays and a whole multitude of species – are from the Indian Ocean The aquarium has
recruited experienced professional curators and aquarists. They are responsible for
maintaining the exhibits and take care of the fish.

[61]
Polin Aquariums is a subsidiary of the well-known Turkish Polin Waterparks. VGP
Marine Kingdom engaged it to provide life support systems and water management. It
also worked on the insulation and acrylic panels for the tunnel aquarium.

[62]
5.2 TARAPOREWALA AQUARIUM

5.2.1 LOCATION
Taraporewala Aquarium is India's oldest aquarium and one of the city's main attractions.
It hosts marine and freshwater fishes. The Taraporewala Aquarium located on the western
coast of India in the metropolis Mumbai at marine drive.

Taraporewala Aquarium opened in 1951 and was constructed the combined efforts of
Maharashtra government and Parsi businessman. The aquarium has a total of 70
specimens with water tank ranging from 1000-1500 gallons including both marine water
fish and freshwater fishes.

5.2.2 SPECIFICATION OF AREAS

5.2.2.1 MAIN ENTRANCE

The Aquarium entrance have a small water tunnel at the foyer is made up of 4.5 inches
think Plexiglas and holds a total water capacity of 22,000 liters. the tank's dry weight is
5.5 tones.

[63]
5.2.2.2 MAIN LOBBY

After entering into the tunnel there is the main lobby which is connected to various areas.
In main lobby there is an huge water fountain and lower height tanks for babies. Entering
in the lobby you see gate which is on the both side of the fountain that is the entrance of
the main tank.

5.2.2.3 WATER TANKS

The main section first. To the right, on the walls,

are marine tanks, with fish from the sea, and on
the left are the freshwater tanks full of creatures
from rivers and lakes. Each tank has its own
information panel so that people can know about
the creature and for the tank glass safety railing is
given.

5.2.2.4 AMPHITHEATER

Aquarium also has an amphitheater

has a capacity of 47 seats. films are
projected mainly for kids such as marine
life& technology, animation movie
about pollution and hunting.

[64]
5.2.2.5 EXHIBITION AREA

The aquarium had a room which housed fossils, corals, seashells, bottled and preserved
exhibits displays on the walls. Of them, this fossil of a young crocodile will surely be the
center of attraction. in this area there are few small tanks and fish and fossil information
on the wall.

SERVICE & FILTRATION

The circulation in the aquarium is of closed type i.e. The water once taken into the system
is used over and over again. From display tanks goes to the filters where it passes through
layers of sand, and pebbles, here it is gotten rid of impurities and other noxious substance.
It then flows to abasement reserve from where it is pumped up to an overhead reserve it
can now drop by gravity to the display tanks.

[65]
5.2.3 SITE PLAN

[66]
5.2.4 AREA STATEMENT

TARAPOREWALA

AREA LENGTH X BREATH SQFT

1)ENTRANCE 7'3"X12'-3" 88.81

2)LOBBY 24'-3"X7'-6" 382.8

3)TOILET 634.37

5)MECHANICAL 1569.49

6)TOUCH POND 41.57

7)FAST FOOD 29'-9"X18'-3" 542.93

8)STAFF ROOM 5'-6"X6'-3" 34.37

9)OFFICE 13'-3"X9'-0" 119.25

10)PATHWAY 21281.96

11)HEATING 21'-9"X31'-6" 685.12

12)TICKET OFFICE 23'-3"X29'-9" 661.93

13)EXTRA AREA 22'-9"X13'-3" 298.12

14) RAMP 8-'9"X3'-0" 26.25

TOTAL 27171

[67]
5.3 Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Cochin

[68]
5.4 NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF OCEANOGRAPHY, COCHIN

[69]
 CHAPTER – 6

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

1. COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

[70]
6.1 COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

[71]
[72]
[73]
 CHAPTER – 7

SPECIAL STUDY

1. AQUARIUM TUNNEL

7 - SPECIAL STUDY

7.1 AQUARIUM TUNNEL

An Aquarium Tunnel is the most effective way to allow people to be underwater
without actually getting wet. The view of fish and other aquatic wildlife from
underneath is the most unique and unnatural view available. There is something very
ominous about a shark swimming overhead less than three feet away.
The Aquarium Tunnel can be used both in freshwater and saltwater exhibits. Even open
water tunnels have been constructed. Such a tunnel consists of acrylic panels, which
are arched in large ovens, in order to form these magnificent overhead tanks. Aquarium
tunnels can be of 180-degree angle, rectangular or of different shape.

7.1.1 SHAPES OF AQUARIUM TUNNELS

7.1.1.1 Cylindrical Aquarium Tunnel

Tunnels are typically cylindrical in design. The most common tunnel has a
constant radius and spans 180°. This tunnel ls can be faceted to make turns within the
tank. The ideal tunnel has the viewer at some point completely surrounded by water so
that in whatever direction they look, they only see water. A tunnel design can and many
times does span beyond 180° to provide the viewer with a panoramic view of the tank
interior. This type of design requires some unique coordination regarding the
installation.

[74]
7.1.1.2 Optimized Aquarium Tunnel
There is an option other than the cylindrical design when designing tunnels. Since the
water pressure at the top of the tunnel is less than the water pressure at the bottom, the
acrylic window designer can take advantage of the differential and provide an
optimized tunnel profile that is more elliptical in shape. When the width of the tunnel
gets wide and the shape is cylindrical, the top of the tunnel starts getting quite high. If
the top of the tunnel is too far above the heads of the people in the tunnel, then the
feeling of being underwater starts to be lost. Optimizing the tunnel brings the top of the
tunnel closer to the people in the tunnel, returning that intimate underwater feel.
Properly designed, the optimized tunnel shape can lower the stress and movement of
the acrylic tunnel; thus, the design thickness can be reduced, providing a cost savings
as well better aesthetics. The optimized design works best for tunnel profiles that are
very wide where the water is not too high above the top of the acrylic. Optimized tunnel
sections are specific to the width and depth of the tunnel. The optimized tunnel can be
worked into numerous aquatic environments and its design naturally varies on width
and depth. However, this
type of design works best in a wide aquarium space and just below the surface of the
water.

7.1.1.3 Rectangular Aquarium Tunnel

Tunnels can be made in a rectangular shape. This is an expensive option because the
acrylic needs to be thicker than with the cylindrical or optimized design options since
the tensile stresses tend to be quite high.

[75]
The rectangular shape also offers the poorest view. Unlike the curved tunnel designs
which offer uninterrupted views, the flat panel tunnels have a disjointed view since the
animals must swim past the corners of the acrylic panels that are on different planes.
Because of these disadvantages, rectangular tunnels are not the choice
of architects designing aquaria.

7.1.2 ACRYLIC PANELS

Acrylic Panels – more translucent than glass and a great insulator – are used as an
alternative to traditional float glass. When it comes to withstanding pressure acrylic
panels are superior as they are less brittle and hold back higher loads. That is why it is
the material of choice for underwater viewing.

Acrylic Panels have the following attributes:

• A clear, distortion-free view
• Ease of care and clean
• Extremely high stability and break resistance.
• Good heat insulation.
• Very good thermoform ability.

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 CHAPTER – 8

AREA STATEMENT

1. AREA STATEMENT

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 CHAPTER – 9

SITE DETAILS

1. ABOUT MAHABALIPURAM

9 – Site Details
9.1 About Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram was the earlier name of Mamallapuram because the demon king
Mahabali
was killed by Lord Vishnu. The name was changed later by the king of Pallava
Narashima
Varman who has got the title of Mamalla; the great wrestler.

Mahabalipuram lies on the Coromandel Coast which faces the Bay of Bengal. This is
an elegant place to watch which a well-established sea port was during the 7th and 10th
centuries of the Pallava dynasty. This was the second capital of the Pallavas who ruled
Kanchipuram. Formerly, mahabalipuram was known and called as Mahabalipuram. The
former name of this place "Mahabalipuram' has a history. A very rude cruel king
Mahabali
reined this place and in a fierce battle king Mahabali was killed by Lord Vishnu and the
place was named after the dead, arrogant kind Mahabali.

It was during the reign of King Narasimha Varman I, the name Mahabalipuram was
changed.
It was renamed mahabalipuram which is called till now. There is a story behind
The name Mamallpuram king Narasimha Varman I was a great and valiant warrior. He
was given the title Mamalla which means the great wrestler' so the name was converted
from Mahabalipuram to mahabalipuram considering the great king and his achievements.

After the decline of the Gupta Dynasty, the pallavas rose to the pioneer in south India.
They ruled over from the 3rd century till the end of the 9th century AD. The best period
of their rule was between 650 and 750 AD and this period was called the Golden Age of
the pallavas. The pallavas were very powerful. They were profound thinkers.

It was during the rule of the pallavas, great poets, dramatists, artists, artisans, scholars and
saints emerged. As one can say that the pallavas are the pioneers and forerunners of new
styles both in art and architecture and mahabalipuram is the best place to praise off their
skill and talent. New sculptures and unique paintings were innovative and exuberant. This
place mahabalipuram itself became their exploring field and they made the best use of the
resources. They game a shape and creative energy to what they imagined. It became a
dream come true as it witnessed innovations in all styles.

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The richness in mahabalipuram was not known to many, as these pallavas did not outlet
and expose their quality and innovative creations to the outer world for obvious reasons.
The aestheticism in mahabalipuram was hidden until the late 185h century. Mamallpuram
is referred as an open-air museum'.
9.1.1 Site selection Criteria

For designing any structure on a piece of land the following points must be taken into
account before carrying out the further work
1. Site should be a tourist spot or attract a lot of tourist
2. It should be dose to hotels resorts.
3. It should be dose to the sea for availability of uninterrupted water
4. It should have good infrastructure/connectivity with other arcs
5. Space or future development should be available
6. Should benefit from the surrounding attractions

9.1.2 Why Mahabalipuram ?

1.lt is a proposed site by the Tamilnadu State Government (TSG)

2. Has good connectivity with other states.
3. The footfall is already in good shape because of the heritage sites.
4. Many hotels (5 and 3 star) less than 2 kms away
5. Because of it's great connectivity to the cast coast road connecting Chennai and
Pondicherry the site has a good potential number of forcing visitor's
6. It is on the sea shore so good availability of water.
7. CRZ clearance is acquired for the site.

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9.1.3 SITE ANALYSIS

Location : Mahabalipuram
District : Kanchipuram
State : Tamilnadu
Area : 8 sq kms
Altitude : 12 Meters
Population : 12,049
Climate : Tropical
Summer : Maximum - 39.1 degree C
Minimum - 21.1 degree C
Winter : Maximum - 31.5 degree C
Minimum - 19.8 degree C
Rainfall : 1219 mm average
Wind Direction : North East and Southern
Languages spoken : Tamil and English
Tourist Season : Throughout the year

9.1.4 Accessibility

Chennai airport to Mahabalipuram : 55 kms

Chengalpattu to Mahabalipuram : 29 kms
Pondicherry to Mahabalipuram : 100 kms
Bangalore to Mahabalipuram : 350 kms
Hyderabad to Mahabalipuram : 694 kms
Mumbai to Mahabalipuram : 1337 kms
Kolkata to Mahabalipuram : 2256 kms

9.1.5 Places to visit in Mahabalipuram

1. Mahabalipuram beach - 11 km
2. Shore Temple - 12 km
3. Panch Ratahas - 500 m
4. Arjuna's Penance - 750 m
5. Mahabalipuram Lighthouse - 500 m
6. Krishna' Butter Ball - 950 m
7. Mandapa - 800 m
8. Sculpture museum - 1 km
9. Dharmaraja Cave - 600 m
10.Mahabalipuram Church - 2 km
11.Crocodile Park - 5 km
12.Mumu Surf Shop - 1.5 km

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AVERAGE TEMPERATURE AND PRECIPITATION

SUN DIRECTION

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9.1.6 SITE

The dimensions of site are 303.50 meters in length and 215.90 meters in width and the
total area of the site is
65,525 sq.m (15 acres) of which only 6 acres will be used for construction. There is
average vegetation on site of neem, tamarind and palm trees.
The major wind is from SE to NW direction. There are hardly any contours on site.

-AREA OF THE SITE CHOOSEN: 15 ACRES

-AREA OF THE SITE NEEDED: 5 ACRES
-BUILT UP AREA: APPROXIMATELY 7 ACRES
-FSI - 0.4
-PLOT COVERAGE-38%

9.1.7 Stength:
Seashore to add views and vista
- close to design's function & every adaptability of the program.
- Tourist spot,/enhances target or user groups.
- Wind - predominant SE to NW
9.1.8 Weakness:
- coastal Regulation zone
- Buffer space must be provided between shore & building
-Limitations and restrictions to design and materials used.
9.1.9 Opportunity:
- Revamp Mahabalipuram's public building skyline
- Sets an example in Chennai & its surroundings
- Offers multiple job opportunities for locals.
9.1.10 Threat:
- Might increase vehicular footfall in & around site.
- Design style might not merge with Mahabalipuram's existing
architerture style

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- Rise in sea level & any natural Calamites might affect structure and life span.
9.1.11 Land Availability and Design Norms:

Land falls under Coastal Regulation Zone Ill and permanent structure allowed is only up
to two floors with a maximum height restriction of 9meters.As per Coastal Regulation
Zone Act, we cannot do any civil construction up to 200m from High Tide Line (HTL) of
Ocean. Out of 15 acres of land, 7acres fall within 200 meters from High Tide Line and
balance 8 acres fall between 200 - 500 meters from
High Tide Line.
Hence, we could use only 8 acres for Aquarium construction and the balance 7 acres we
may use for the purpose for which no construction is required. In other words, we may
use the 7 acres land only for fish stocking, game fishing,laser show,
Amphi Theatre, Turtle Park etc that do not require civil
construction above the ground.

Portable water Ground Water level is at 4,38m (As per GROUNDWATER YEAR BOOK
OF TAMIL NADU AND U. T. OF PUDUCHERRY 2018-2019 Also from public water
tanks!
Electricity . NO HT lines cross over the site.
Telephone - Telephone line are avilable along the road side of site

9.1.12 SITE USES

1. The site is also not surrounded by landfill.

2. Currently the site is not used by the public crowd.

9.1.13 LAND OWNERSHIP

The land is currently owned by goverment and no public peoples are allowed inside site
without permission

9.1.14 TYPES OF SAND

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9.1.15 LAND USE MAP

9.1.16 SITE PICTURES

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9.1.17 DESIGN PROCESS

SITE PLAN

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GROUND FLOOR PLAN

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FIRST FLOOR PLAN

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SERVICE BLOCK PLAN

SERVICE BLOCK VIEW

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SECTION A-A”

SECTION B-B”

SECTION C-C”

SECTION D-D”

SECTION E-E”

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VIEWS

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VIEWS

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VIEWS
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REFRENCES

• Difference between aquarium and oceanarium

• https://anyamia. wordpress.com/tag/aquarium
• https://www.britannica.com/science/oceanarium
• Classification of fishes
• http://www.animalsworlds.com classification-of-fish.html
• Fish Anatomy & Physiology
• -http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c-162160&aid=583
• -https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fish physiology
• SALTWATER VERSUS FRESHWATER AQUARIUMS
• http://www.ratemyfishtank.com/blog/saltwater versus-freshwater-aquariums
• -http://www.aquariumarchitecture.com/archive/saltwater aquarium-vs-freshwater/
• Freshwater setup
• http://www.petco.com/content/petco/PetcoStoreen_US/pet-services/resource-cen-
• ter/product-guides/freshwater-aquarium.html

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