Amid the widespread deterioration of cultural, recreational, and environmental education institutions in Cuba, the regime is nonetheless betting on revitalizing the National Aquarium in Havana, a facility that is undergoing a crisis in both its species and its infrastructure.
According to a report broadcasted by the official channel Canal Habana, the center's top priority is the replenishment of marine life.
The population of sea turtles has decreased drastically and the institution has requested special permits from the Ministry of Food Industry to capture new specimens.
"Unfortunately, the number of turtles we have at the facility has declined," admitted an aquarium official.
The situation of the sea lions is even more critical: the remaining individuals are long-lived and have undergone a high level of inbreeding, which jeopardizes their survival in the facility
To prevent the disappearance of this colony, a project is being developed with Namibia that would allow for the importation of fresh animals to incorporate into the exhibits.
Although the management insists that the aquarium has not halted its conservation efforts, the structural problems are piling up.
The rescue project plans to restore aquariums, ponds, and public areas, all affected by the saline environment and neglect.
The official promise is that, once restored, these facilities will be able to display the results of scientific research conducted by the staff.
The authorities emphasize the "scientific and educational importance" of the plan, but the reality is that the aquarium reflects the same deterioration experienced by zoos, museums, and parks in the country.
The contrast is evident: while there is an attempt to showcase a rescue project, visitors encounter battered facilities and endangered species, set against a backdrop of economic crisis and neglect of public infrastructure.
In May, a video posted on social media by the Cuban content creator @kary_y_jony brought to the forefront of public debate the state of neglect of the National Aquarium of Cuba in Havana.
In the audiovisual material, the young woman documents with images and comments the visible deterioration of the facilities: walls with mold and leaks, wet floors, lack of structural maintenance, rusted railings, and a notable shortage of marine species.
Everything seemed to be left to its fate, lamented the video's author, who also criticized the dining services at the location for their limited variety and poor service.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Deterioration of the National Aquarium of Cuba
What is the current situation of the National Aquarium of Cuba?
The National Aquarium of Cuba is facing severe deterioration both in its facilities and among its marine species. The walls show mold and leaks, the floors are wet, and there is a noticeable shortage of marine species. In addition, the food services are limited and of low quality.
What measures are being taken to improve the condition of the National Aquarium?
The Cuban regime has announced a rescue plan that includes the repair of fish tanks, ponds, and public areas, although visible actions are limited. Permission has been requested to capture new specimens of turtles and a project is being developed with Namibia to bring in new sea lions.
Why has the population of turtles and sea lions decreased in the Aquarium?
The population of sea turtles at the National Aquarium of Cuba has drastically decreased due to the lack of new specimens and suitable conditions. Sea lions are facing issues due to a high level of inbreeding and aging of the existing specimens, which affects their survival.
What have visitors reported about the condition of the National Aquarium?
Visitors have reported the lamentable condition of the National Aquarium, describing it as an abandoned place with deteriorating facilities and a scant presence of marine species. Social media users have expressed frustration at the level of neglect and have compared the state of the aquarium to that of other public spaces in Cuba.
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