National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium

Although the diversity of living organisms in the polar waters is low, polar organisms have finely adapted to their frigid conditions. The main purpose of this exhibition is to introduce visitors to the basic ecology of the polar waters through virtual demonstrations on the Arctic and Antarctic environments. As a highlight, visitors can also see live Antarctic penguins and Arctic puffins.

The polar lights, known as “Aurora Borealis,” occur only during the freezing nights of the Earth’s polar regions. Just like stars, polar lights occur during the day, as well, though we cannot see them due to interference from sunlight. The duration of the polar lights varies from half a minute to more than half an hour. The moving speed of the polar lights is also highly variable, and their kaleidoscopic nature creates the most unforgettable of sights and experiences one may have in a lifetime.

The Arctic Ocean is surrounded by Eurasia and North America. In winter, it is often covered with ice while in summer, the ice melts and breaks apart due to the elevated temperature. A variety of waterways and icebergs are then formed, creating habitats for various marine creatures, such as the polar bear.

The Antarctic Ocean surrounds Antarctica. In winter, it is covered with ice and creates a harsh habitat for lifeforms. However, in summer, alga and krill below the ice surface bloom and attracts squid, penguins, seals, and whales to feed, forming a unique food chain.

Most polar animals possess either dense feathers, furs or blubber to insulate themselves from the cold, though many migrate to warmer waters during the winter. Those that remain during such inhospitable times exhibit behaviors such as hibernation or “group snuggling” to survive.

King penguins are non-nesting birds. During the two-month hatching period, the parents take turns keeping their precious egg warm by tucking it under the skin between their feet and belly. During the reproductive season, as many as a million pairs of king penguins will aggregate and attempt to attract mates by, for instance, making loud sounds and/or constantly flapping their yellow feathers.