SDG 14

Indicator 14.2.1

Outreach and Engagement

Trang Aquarium: Exploring Freshwater Ecosystems Knowledge at RUTS

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October 16, 2024

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Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya (RUTS) promotes freshwater ecosystem education for local communities through exhibits at the Trang Aquarium, located on the RUTS Trang Campus. The aquarium provides knowledge on biodiversity and aquatic ecosystems, with a focus on freshwater environments. Freshwater ecosystems, though covering less than 1% of the Earth’s surface, support 10% of the world’s animal species. These ecosystems are vital for residential, agricultural, industrial, and transport purposes, contributing to human well-being. However, they face significant threats from overuse, habitat degradation, invasive species, climate change, water diversion, and impoundment.

The RUTS aquarium has an indoor section that displays freshwater fish species, especially rare freshwater fish species that are under threat of extinction or rare freshwater fish species, and an outdoor section that displays a simulated freshwater ecosystem. The freshwater ecosystem exhibition area is one-third of the total area of Trang Aquarium. Freshwater fish of Thailand

The Trang Aquarium serves as an important educational resource on freshwater ecosystems for the broader local community, including both the general public and students from nearby schools. Regular visits are organized by the aquarium, allowing visitors and students to study and engage with the displayed ecosystems. In support of these visits, aquarium staff provide lectures on freshwater ecosystems, fulfilling one of the core missions of the Trang Aquarium. The exhibition itself is designed with the primary goals of enhancing public understanding of freshwater ecosystems, conserving freshwater biodiversity, and promoting the sustainable use of freshwater resources. Each year, the aquarium hosts over 20,000 visitors, including local residents, domestic and international tourists, as well as students, all of whom come to learn about these vital ecosystems.

In conclusion, the RUTS Trang Aquarium serves a crucial role in promoting knowledge among the local community and visitors, particularly in the areas of education and the conservation of freshwater ecosystems in Thailand.

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Related Links:

http://nrei.rmutsv.ac.th/ruts/en

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