Austria, a country known for its breathtaking scenery, also has a vibrant community of aquarists passionately dedicated to the art and science of aquatics. From the majestic Alps to the picturesque lakes and rivers, Austria offers a rich variety of habitats that inspire and challenge aquarists. In this blog post, we take a closer look at the world of aquatics in Austria, its history, its most popular species and the vibrant community that surrounds it.

A journey through the history of aquaristics in Austria
Aquaristics has a long and fascinating history in Austria. As early as the 19th century, wealthy citizens in Austria began keeping exotic fish in small aquariums to admire their beauty and diversity. Over time, aquarium keeping became a popular hobby for people of all ages and social backgrounds. Today, there are numerous aquarium clubs, pet shops and online communities throughout Austria that are dedicated to promoting and supporting aquaristics.
Variety in form and function: popular types of aquariums in Austria
Aquariums in Austria cover a wide range of types and styles, from small nano aquariums to large-scale aquascaping projects. Here are some of the most popular types of aquariums that can be found in Austria:
- Freshwater aquariums: Freshwater aquariums are popular with beginners and experienced aquarists alike. They offer a variety of fish species, plants and decorations that allow aquarists to create their own underwater worlds.
- Saltwater aquariums: Saltwater aquariums may be more demanding to maintain, but they offer a breathtaking variety of corals, fish and other marine life. There is a growing community of saltwater aquarists in Austria who are taking on the challenge of maintaining these unique ecosystems.
- Aquascaping: Aquascaping is an art form in which aquarium landscapes are designed to look like natural underwater landscapes. There is a lively aquascaping scene in Austria, which regularly organises competitions and exhibitions to showcase the best designs and techniques.
- Garden ponds: Garden ponds are another form of aquaristics that is very popular in Austria. They not only provide a beautiful decoration for the garden, but also a habitat for a variety of aquatic plants and animals.
The aquaristic community and Triops in Austria
The aquarium community in Austria is vibrant and diverse, made up of people of all ages and backgrounds who are passionate about the beauty and diversity of life underwater. From local aquarium clubs to online forums and social media groups, there are numerous opportunities for aquarists in Austria to network, exchange knowledge and share their passion for aquatics.
Triops have found a growing fan base in Austria, especially among aquarists, schools and nature enthusiasts. Their uncomplicated keeping and fascinating behaviour make them popular pets and learning objects for children and adults alike.
House of the Sea – Aqua Terra Zoo (Vienna)
The Haus des Meeres – Aqua Terra Zoo in Vienna is a unique zoo located in a former flak tower from the Second World War in Esterházypark in the 6th district. Since its opening in 1957, the House of the Sea has become one of the city’s most popular attractions.
Spread over 8,000 square metres and eleven floors, the zoo is home to more than 10,000 animals from different habitats. Visitors can discover an impressive variety of sea creatures, reptiles, birds and mammals. Highlights include the 360-degree shark tank, the Atlantic tunnel and the tropical house with free-flying birds and frolicking monkeys. The roof terrace offers a special experience, from the ‘360° OCEAN SKY’ restaurant you can see the whole of Vienna.
With over 900,000 visitors a year, the Haus des Meeres is one of the most visited attractions in Vienna and offers an exciting experience for the whole family.
Alpine Zoo Innsbruck
Alpenzoo Innsbruck is one of the highest zoos in Europe and is located at around 750 metres above sea level at the foot of the Nordkette mountain range above the rooftops of Innsbruck. Since its opening in 1962 by zoologist Hans Psenner, the zoo has specialised in the animal world of the Alpine region and is home to around 2,000 animals from around 150 species. Particularly noteworthy is the keeping of the wallcreeper, a bird species that can only be seen here in a zoo anywhere in the world.
The zoo is actively involved in species conservation, particularly in the reintroduction of bearded vultures, ibex and northern bald ibex, which were once extinct in Tyrol. Another highlight is the largest cold-water aquarium in the world, which presents various types of alpine water and their fish species. A show farm with old Tyrolean livestock breeds rounds off the offer.
The Alpine Zoo is open all year round and, in addition to the impressive animal world, also offers a marvellous view of Innsbruck and the surrounding mountains. It is an ideal excursion destination for families, nature lovers and anyone who wants to experience the alpine fauna in natural enclosures.
Schmiding Zoo – Aquazoo
Schmiding Zoo in Krenglbach, Upper Austria, is one of the most diverse zoological facilities in the country. Originally founded in 1982 as a bird park, the zoo now covers an area of 14 hectares and is home to around 4,500 animals from around 340 species.
A particular highlight is the Aquazoo, which houses Austria’s largest marine aquarium. Here, visitors can observe fascinating sea creatures such as reef sharks, a 110-kilogram sea turtle and numerous tropical fish species.
The zoo also offers unique experiences such as the world’s largest free-flight bird of prey aviary with a volume of 25,000 cubic metres. Other attractions include the tropical house with free-roaming monkeys and exotic birds and the gorilla enclosure, which is home to Austria’s only gorillas.
There are several adventure playgrounds for families, including an eight-metre-high slide tower and a pirate ship, which make a visit to the zoo an unforgettable experience for children too.
The offer is complemented by the 4,000 m² Evolution Museum, which vividly illustrates the development of life from its beginnings to artificial intelligence.
Schmiding Zoo is open all year round and offers an exciting excursion destination for the whole family in both good and bad weather.
Animal world Herberstein
Tierwelt Herberstein in Styria is not only known for its extensive outdoor enclosures, but also for its modern House of Biodiversity, which offers fascinating insights into the world of aquaristics and terraristics. In this interactive experience area, visitors can discover native and exotic fish species as well as reptiles and amphibians in near-natural habitats. The lovingly designed aquariums and terrariums are particularly impressive, illustrating the diversity and beauty of the underwater and tropical world.
Aquaristics in Austria – Conclusion
Aquaristics in Austria is more than just a hobby – it is a source of inspiration, creativity and community. From the glistening waters of the Alps to the exotic coral reefs of the seas, aquaristics offers people the opportunity to experience and appreciate the beauty and diversity of life underwater. Through the support of aquarium clubs, pet shops and online communities, aquarists in Austria can share their knowledge and passion and discover together a world that is as fascinating as it is mysterious.