Update: As previously announced, Insectarium remains closed since the park reopened on June 4, 2020. Therefore, we regret to inform you that the amphibian exhibit within Insectarium is also unavailable. Please be aware of this.

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Due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic Tama Zoo has been temporarily closed since March 28, 2020. However, shortly before the closure, the amphibian exhibit near the exit of Insectarium was renovated. Let's take a look at what has changed and the points we focused on.

Before the renovation		After the renovation

First, we lowered the height of the stand on which the aquarium sits by 20 cm. Previously, children had to stretch or be held to see it, but by lowering it, more people can now see it clearly.

Next, we changed the size and layout of the aquarium. The aquarium was set up behind a display glass, but it was small, and the empty space around it was very noticeable. So, aiming for a more dynamic display, we changed to a large, custom-made aquarium.

Furthermore, many of the amphibians on display live in woodlands and other similar environments in the wild. Therefore, we collected trees that grow naturally within the park, such as Japanese privet and Eurya japonica. However, since we couldn't find any that were the right size or shape for the tanks, we significantly pruned the trunks and branches before planting them in the tanks.
I was worried that the stress of pruning might kill the plant, but it took root successfully, and now I'm at the stage of shaping the branches to create a balanced form. Please also pay attention to the changing scenery inside the aquarium as the plant grows.


Schlegel's Green Tree Frog

Forest Green Tree Frog
Furthermore, to provide a broader understanding of amphibian ecology, we've added Schlegel's Green Tree Frog and Forest Green Tree Frog, which live in trees. Since they are kept together with ground-dwelling frogs such as Montane Brown Frog, visitors can look for the arboreal frogs at the top of the tank, compare their morphologies, and discover new things to see.

Finally, we also renovated the viewing walkway. We changed the wall paint to a lighter color and illuminated the panels with warm-toned lights to create a softer atmosphere. In addition, we installed labels in front of the tanks that introduce observation points, and placed information panels on the walls about the ecology, habitat, and conservation of amphibians. We believe that viewing the exhibits while reading the explanations will deepen your understanding of amphibians.

We hope that the newly renovated exhibit will spark your interest in amphibians.

[Yasushi Furuhashi Tama Zoo]

(May 29, 2020)