China’s Xiaomeisha Sea World’s life-sized robotic whale shark has gone viral on social and digital media globally.
The recently reopened aquarium in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, has drawn a debate for its steep entry fee of 230 yuan (approximately Rs8,845), leaving curious visitors to watch the robotic whale shark, according to the South China Morning Post.
Viral videos on social media show the robotic whale shark gliding through the waters of the facility.
However, many visitors felt amazed upon discovering its artificial nature.
“I can’t believe the whale shark is a robot. Charging over 200 yuan for this is outrageous,” one visitor lamented. Another threatened to report the aquarium to authorities to have it shut down.
Many commended the initiative, praising the aquarium’s efforts to combine entertainment and conservation.
“It’s a brilliant alternative to displaying large marine creatures without confining them to tanks. Rather than hiding the truth, the aquarium should use this as a chance to educate visitors about marine life conservation,” commented a cyberpunk enthusiast on Xiaohongshu.
