Behind every tank there is a living laboratory
The FES Iztacala Aquarium is not just an exhibition space. It is teaching, research and conservation, with opportunities for academic participation.
A university aquarium
Its university character is what sets it apart. It is not focused solely on exhibition or entertainment: it combines teaching, research, conservation and outreach in the same space.
If you are visiting
Beyond seeing fish, a visit is a chance to learn about different species, their care, water quality and compatibility between organisms — everything that keeps an aquatic ecosystem healthy. And to see part of the research and conservation work done there.
The aquarium’s four objectives
Students work at laboratory benches beside the tanks. Teaching
Support Biology courses and connect classroom learning with hands-on work involving aquatic organisms.
Practical work with a net in a culture tank. Professional training
Contribute to professional development through social service, theses, graduate studies and continuing education.
Observation and work with organisms in the laboratory tanks. Research
Generate integrated knowledge for the production and care of aquatic organisms, guided by teaching and training needs.
A group listens to an explanation during a visit to the aquarium. Outreach
Introduce the work of biologists to the community and encourage environmental awareness through visits, fairs and workshops.
Explore thesis and social service opportunities
The aquarium began as an initiative by students and professors. Training connects with teaching, research and outreach: from organism care and aquarium management to thesis and social service projects. Explore the learning areas and ask how to join the team.
Areas of the aquarium
Exhibition area
The public area has 32 exhibition tanks. Visit during opening hours, free of charge and without an appointment. It was adapted from a laboratory on the ground…
Aquaculture Production Laboratory
The aquarium’s working area: organism culture, nutrition experiments and the systems that support both areas. This is where thesis research and social service…