A young male Chinese Water Dragon has been added to the displays at Newquay’s Blue Reef Aquarium.
The vibrant green water dragon goes on display in time for the Whitsun bank holiday and can be enjoyed by all aquarium visitors this half-term.
The oriental dragon’s new enclosure features natural theming with a waterfall and his very own pool to dive into.
Displays supervisor Lara Heaney says “The dragon was a little shy when we first introduced him to his new home but he is exploring and already has a favourite spot. He likes to sit on the top of the waterfall and dip his tail into the flowing water.”
Cornwall’s largest aquarium offers a large variety of aquatic species from tropical sharks, a loggerhead sea turtle, stingray, seahorses, a giant Pacific octopus and hundreds of tropical and freshwater fish.
Blue Reef visitors can also get involved as the aquarium is running a competition for the public to help give their newest resident a name.
The exotic water dragon is a great addition to their displays and gives visitors a chance to see the species up close.
A male water dragon or scientifically named Physignathus cocincinus, can reach a length of 1 metre and weigh about 1 kg. Two-thirds of the length of a water dragon all tail. They are native to China and South-eastern Asia where they are usually found along the banks of freshwater lakes and streams.
As well as the exciting new dragon, the aquarium is also running a pirate themed week over half term. There is a lost treasure trail with gold coins hidden amongst the displays and lots of fun pirate themed activities for the visitors to get involved in.
Issued by Blue Reef Aquarium. For more information please contact Melissa Hallam or Lara Heaney on 01637 878134.
