The Fluvarium

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The Fluvarium is a running water aquarium where river water from the Mill Stream (part of the River Frome) is directed through two substantial glass-sided channels within a purpose built building.

The Fluvarium building permits unique access to an ‘experimental river’ where complex scientific equipment, including sensitive electronics, can be brought into close proximity to a real river, but under the protection of a substantial concrete building with a glass roof.

The Fluvarium Building at the FBA River Laboratory

 

Glass-sided channels within the Fluvarium

 

 

The Fluvarium has been used for numerous scientific studies including:

• Fish tracking
• Experimental work on the shear stress of macrophyte plants
• Hydrophone experiments
• Behavioural studies of caged wild fish

The Fluvarium offers a unique platform for scientific research and is available to rent or hire from the Freshwater Biological Association (subject to availability with existing research). For all enquiries please email RiverLab@fba.org.uk.

 

Fluvarium electrical and services (south wall)

 

Tank area (north wall)

 

 

 

 

Fluvarium directing Salmonid fish into a rotary fish trap for tagging work