Nestled in the heart of Croatia's picturesque Karlovac region, Aquatika – freshwater aquarium Karlovac is a hidden gem that showcases the vibrant biodiversity of the country's freshwater ecosystems. This impressive aquarium holds about 100 species of fish, invertebrates, and amphibians, many of which are native to the area.

Amazing Flora and Fauna

Established in 2016 and located along the beautiful right bank of the Korana River, Aquatika – freshwater aquarium Karlovac is the only freshwater aquarium in Croatia. The layout of the pools in the Karlovac aquarium follows the course of a typical karst river, such as the Korana River, on the right bank of which Aquatika is located. This concept provides a detailed, interesting, educational, and exciting look into the mysterious freshwater world, and every visitor can experience the river's flow from source to mouth. In addition to the story about the river, you will also find numerous interesting facts about the types of fish that live in certain parts of the river.

Upon entering the aquarium complex, visitors are greeted by an outdoor pool that is home to the European pond turtle, a strictly protected species. This aquarium also houses the colorful koi carp, a fish that varies in value depending on the distribution of coloration on the body and its size. The most expensive koi carp ever sold at auction fetched a price of USD 1.8 million. These are common carp species used in aquaria.  

Inside the aquarium, visitors are transported to a series of indoor pools on two floors that present the whole river story, from its source to its estuary, offering a more in-depth look at the mysterious world of freshwater ecosystems. On the underground floor, one enters a cave – a most valuable part of Aquatika. A cave contains ten aquaria that show the Croatian endemic species of fish, which are organized by specific geographical areas of Croatia. Endemic species are those with a very limited and small distribution range. 

The biggest attraction is, of course, the largest specimens of fish. In the large aquarium, fish from the sturgeon family are displayed: sturgeon, Russian sturgeon, white sturgeon, Atlantic sturgeon, and Siberian sturgeon. By the way, sturgeons belong to the oldest fish species and date back to the age of dinosaurs. During spawning, some forms make a long journey from the sea to fresh waters. In the past, the Russian sturgeon also swam in our Danube, Drava, and Sava rivers, and after the construction of the Danube in Đerdap, it became extinct in these rivers.

Likewise, the sterlet (Acipenser ruthenus) was once found in the lowland course of the Kupa River, lower than Kamenski near Karlovac, while today it inhabits the Danube, Sava, Drava, and Mura in Croatia. 

In the aquarium, you will also find a display of a swamp and a pond, a travertine barrier, a sturgeon habitat, and an aquarium with invasive fish species.

Freshwater Systems Boasting with Diversity

One exhibit explores the dark and mysterious world of underground caves, home to some of Croatia's most unique aquatic creatures. Another exhibit explores the rich biodiversity of Croatia's rivers, with colorful rainbow trout and elusive European eels on display. Perhaps the most impressive exhibit at Aquatika – freshwater aquarium Karlovac is the Danube basin, which showcases the incredible diversity of life that can be found in the mighty Danube River. 

Throughout the aquarium, visitors can also learn about the threats facing Croatia's freshwater ecosystems, such as pollution and overfishing. The aquarium's staff is passionate about conservation and is dedicated to raising awareness about these important issues.

Plan Your Trip to Karlovac

The city of Karlovac is located in central Croatia at the transition from the lowlands to the mountains. It is also known as the "city on 4 rivers". Namely, four beautiful rivers flow through it: Dobra, Korana, Kupa, and Mrežnica. You can visit Aquatika between 09:00 am  to 07:00 pm (or 09:00 am to 05:00 pm during winter months). You can also find information on ticket prices on their website (www.aquariumkarlovac.com), as well as many other useful information. You can also register children for educational workshops that are very interesting and last from 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the children's age. Workshops are held in groups, and they require an announcement and reservation (via email to info@aquariumkarlovac.com or phone +385 47 659 112).

Aquatika freshwater aquarium Karlovac is intended primarily for children and young people, student aquarists, scientists, nature lovers… basically for everyone! Developing and raising awareness of exceptional biological diversity is more important today than ever. Freshwater systems are getting more and more vulnerable, and there is no better place than Aquatika - freshwater aquarium Karlovac to learn about their importance, their impact on our lives, and how to preserve them for future generations.

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