The middle section of the river, which is found downstream of its mountainous source, is comparatively broad and mellow and is characterized by mild temperatures, substantial water volume, and a leisurely flow. Freshwater weeds thrive here and act as a nursery for marine creatures.
The rivers of Taiwan mostly originate from the high central mountain where the streams are short and rapid. The exhibition captures the narrow paths of the mountain streams, the dense plant life lining the riverbanks, the cool and clear nature of the water, and, of course the mystic fog that is so popular with both domestic and foreign tourists. Visitors will get a sense of the natural mountain landscapes and become familiar with "Taiwan’s national treasure, the precious fish called "yamame".
Stones and aquatic and land plants of all shapes and sizes act to stabilize the riverbanks, constructing a habitat for frogs, toads, turtles, snakes, rats, otters and birds. This display window encourages the audience to observe the behavior of amphibians and reptiles at a close distance and, more generally, displays the importance of the riverbank region to the environment to the overall ecology of these riverine ecosystems.
The bright and warm surface waters are in stark contrast to the gloomy and cold benthic waters of the reservoir. The rock walls provide a distinct and complex framework and habiat for a variety of fish species.
Oyster farming is the most traditional type of shallow sea aquaculture on the western coast of Taiwan, ranging from Hsinchu in the north to Dapeng Bay in the south. Numerous oyster fields cover this area. The semicircular display tank produces the sense of being underwater and shows visitors the naturally occurring interactions between the dangling lines of growing oysters and shoals of fish swimming among them.
The estuary portion of this exhibit introduces the mangrove ecosystems of western Taiwan. The type of soil found here not only accumulates nutrients from the river and ocean, but also stores energy-rich, organic matter from the decomposition of twigs and fallen leaves. As such, this muddy soil serves as an organic food source for fish, shrimps, crabs, clams and worms, many of which also reproduce in such habitats.
The area between the high and low tide lines is called the intertidal zone. Although the environmental conditions can vary dramatically, it is still among the most populated areas for marine creatures, as numerous crevices in the rocky reefs are available to them as their home and/or hiding places.
This is an interactive marine organism pool that encourages both kids and adults to gently handle some of the sea’s most special and beautiful creatures.
Located on the balcony outside the building is a playground with many models of marine organisms and interactive games. It provides a place for kids to rest and play and encourages them to explore the secrets of the ocean world. One of the highlights include going on an enigmatic dive trip.