The Aquarium (Tikehau) – Tikehau (Tuamotu)

15m Max

15-30m Vis

boat

Site Overview

The Aquarium on Tikehau is a charming shallow lagoon dive site featuring vibrant coral bommies teeming with tropical fish in the calm protected waters of the atoll lagoon, offering divers of all experience levels a relaxed and colourful diving experience in one of the most beautiful atoll environments in the Tuamotus. The site features extensive coral formations that have developed over many years on the shallow lagoon floor, creating complex three-dimensional habitats that support an impressive diversity of tropical fish species in every conceivable colour and shape. Butterflyfish of multiple species patrol the coral heads in pairs, their bright patterns and distinctive markings providing constant visual interest as they feed on coral polyps and small invertebrates with their specialised mouthparts. Multiple anemonefish colonies dot the reef in vibrant patches, their host anemones creating colourful stations where these beloved reef residents dart among the tentacles with characteristic energy and determination. Moray eels are well-established residents throughout the site, with several large individuals occupying favourite crevices where they extend their heads to investigate the surrounding water current for scent particles. The coral communities are remarkably healthy and diverse, featuring branching staghorn corals, massive brain corals, and delicate plate formations that provide excellent photographic subjects in the clear lagoon water. The site serves as an ideal training and orientation location for divers newly arrived at Tikehau who want to acclimatise before attempting the more challenging pass dives.

Dive Briefing

"Descend from the boat to the shallow lagoon floor where the coral bommies immediately reveal their vibrant fish communities and colourful coral formations. Butterflyfish are abundant throughout the site, patrolling their territories in pairs around the coral heads with their distinctive swimming patterns. Anemonefish colonies are well-developed with multiple species hosting their vibrant anemones in various colours that create beautiful macro photography opportunities at close range. Moray eels occupy their favourite crevices throughout the reef structure, with some large individuals extending well from their hiding places to investigate divers with apparent curiosity. The coral bommies support diverse communities of smaller reef fish including juvenile species using the formations as nursery habitats in the protected lagoon environment. Green turtles visit the site regularly to graze on algae growing on the coral substrate, their gentle presence adding to the richness of the experience. The shallow depth allows extended bottom times for thorough exploration and unlimited photography sessions before a leisurely ascent among the shallowest coral formations."