The spectacular Dubai Aquarium & Discovery Centre is all set to open at The Dubai Mall, displaying more than 33,000 aquatic animals representing 85 marine species.

It also features the single largest collection of sharks; over 400 sharks and rays combined, said an official.

It will also boast the world’s largest viewing panel and a 270-degree walkthrough tunnel, for a spectacular display of some of the world’s most intriguing marine animals.

Its educational Discovery Centre will offer tailored programmes for schools on aquatic environments, said an official.

The flagship development of Emaar Malls Group, The Dubai Mall is one of the world’s largest shopping, lifestyle and entertainment destinations featuring a host of world-class leisure attractions.

The aquarium is one of the eagerly anticipated opening day attractions and is expected to draw in residents, tourists and marine enthusiasts from around the world.

A highlight of the aquarium is the 270-degree acrylic glass walkthrough tunnel spanning the entire length of the tank, which enables visitors to experience a unique close encounter with some of the fascinating aquatic animals in the world.

Adding to the overall ambience is a special 'lunar-cyclic' lighting system that will create a theatrical effect depending on the time of day, or cater to a specific event.

'Designed to world-class standards, the aquarium will allow visitors to gain a first hand insight into the exotic wonders of marine life,' said Yousif Al Ali, general manager, The Dubai Mall.

The aquarium is being developed by Oceanis Australia, in line with an accepted Code of Ethics and Animal Welfare Policy, prescribed by the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).

All animal licences and permits conform to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

An on-site aquaculture centre, laboratory, medical facility, food preparation area and freezers assure that the aquatic animals receive timely attention.

New microchip technology will allow the staff to monitor the sharks, and measure their food intake using Bluetooth technology, which will transfer information to a main, centralised laboratory.-TradeArabia News Service