Lonely Sunfish Finds Solace in Human Cutouts at Japanese Aquarium

A Sociable Sunfish Finds Solace in Human Cutouts

A lonely ocean sunfish at the Kaikyokan Aquarium in Shimonoseki, Japan, found solace in human cutouts after showing signs of distress during the aquarium's renovation. The solitary fish, whose sex and age are unknown, began refusing its favorite food and rubbing its head against the tank after visitors stopped coming due to the renovation work.

Concerned about the sunfish's well-being, aquarium staff and a veterinarian suspected the fish might be feeling isolated without the usual human interaction. Moe Miyazawa, the sunfish's handler, knew firsthand how friendly the creature was. Since its arrival at Kaikyokan from Kochi Prefecture in February 2022, the fish had shown a keen interest in humans, following their movements and swimming towards them.

To address the sunfish's loneliness, Miyazawa set up human cutouts resembling aquarium staff outside its tank. The strategy proved successful. The sunfish started eating again and stopped rubbing its head against the tank. Its behavior returned to normal, and it steadily regained weight.

The aquarium shared a photo of the sunfish and its story on social media, garnering millions of views and heartwarming comments from users who expressed their concern and anticipation for the sunfish's well-being. The aquarium staff, including Miyazawa, are relieved to see the sunfish thriving once again.