Three weeks ago one of the 5 Chinese sturgeon that were donated to Ocean Park by the National Aquatic Wildlife Conservation Association died after being bitten by a barracuda. The Association originally offered to replace it, but instead they are now sending 5 more of these rare fish. That will bring the total to 9. The number 9 is related to longevity (among other things) in Cantonese. The original 5 fish represented the Olympic rings since Beijing is hosting the Olympics this year, with Hong Kong hosting the equestrian events.
This batch of sturgeon are between 7 and 9 years old and about 2 metres long, which is larger than the original batch which ranged in age from 2 to 9 years. They will be housed in what is now the shark aquarium. Some of the sharks will be moved to the Atoll Reef and some to back of house pools, not for public viewing.
This new batch are due to arrive by the end of July. The barracuda can’t wait!
You can read more from the Hong Kong Standard.
