In southwestern Japan, a sunfish at the Kaikyokan aquarium found itself in distress after the facility closed for renovations last month. The fish stopped eating, began to swim lethargically, and frequently crashed into the sides of its tank. In a desperate attempt to revive the fish’s spirits, the aquarium staff resorted to creative tactics by hanging their uniforms and placing life-sized cutouts of people outside its enclosure.

The following morning, the sunfish remarkably ate for the first time in nearly a week and has shown continuous signs of recovery, according to aquarist Moe Miyazawa. The sunfish had arrived at the aquarium in February 2024, coming from the Kochi coast. Known for its distinctive rounded shape and large eyes, it quickly became one of the aquarium’s main attractions.

After the aquarium closed on December 1 for extensive renovations set to last six months, staff became concerned when the sunfish started to appear unhealthy. They speculated the fish might have been experiencing digestive issues and attempted to ease its discomfort by reducing its food intake. Given the noise from construction, they made frequent visits to the tank in hopes of providing some comfort. However, their efforts initially proved ineffective.

In a staff meeting, one team member proposed that the absence of visitors might have negatively impacted the sunfish, which led the staff to consider more unconventional solutions. Though doubtful, they decided to implement any idea that might help. They hung their uniforms near the tank and set up cutouts depicting human figures with cheerful expressions to act as a makeshift audience.

Miyazawa expressed surprise and joy when she witnessed the sunfish begin to eat the next day after the cutouts were introduced. “I knew it was watching us while we set them up, but I never imagined it would respond so quickly,” she said with a smile. Since this initiative, the staff have increased their visits to the sunfish, often waving to it in hopes of maintaining its social interaction.

Looking forward, the aquarium staff are optimistic that many visitors will return to see the sunfish once the facility reopens this summer. They hope their unique bond with the fish and the creative measures they’ve taken will enhance both its health and the overall ambiance when it welcomes guests again.