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Ribogospod. nauka Ukr., 2025; 4(74): 308-319
DOI: https://doi.org/10.61976/fsu2025.04.308
UDC 727.7:639.34

Educational and scientific complex "Aquarium" of the Oles Honchar Dnipro National University: 40 years of history, science, service

O. Marenkov, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , ORCID ID 0000-0002-3456-2496, Oles Honchar Dnipro National University, Dnipro
M. Yerukh, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , ORCID ID 0009-0001-4410-0199, Oles Honchar Dnipro National University, Dnipro

Purpose. To summarize the history of the formation, development and modern functioning of the Educational and Scientific Complex "Aquarium" of the Oles Honchar Dnipro National University, to highlight its role in the scientific, educational and educational activities of the university, and to outline the prospects for modernization after 40 years of operation.

Methodology. A historical-analytical approach was applied using archival materials, photo and video sources, reporting documentation of the Educational and Scientific Complex "Aquarium", the Department of General Biology and Aquatic Bioresources, and the results of monitoring and educational research conducted on the basis of the Educational and Scientific Complex "Aquarium". A descriptive description of the expositions, engineering support, educational and research activities, and experience of the facility's operation in the context of energy and military challenges in 2022–2025 was conducted.

Findings. The Aquarium Educational and Scientific Complex has remained a unique higher education facility in Ukraine for 40 years, combining the functions of a freshwater aquarium, a research laboratory, and an environmental education centre. The article summarizes data on the architectural features of the building, the main stages of development, the formation of collections of over 100 species of fish, the organization of educational classes, excursions and popularization events. The role of the Aquarium in the training of biology students and postgraduates, improving the qualifications of teachers, and developing scientific research in the field of hydrobiology, ichthyology, aquaculture, and aquatic bioresources is outlined.

Originality. The uniqueness of the Educational and Scientific Complex "Aquarium" of Oles Honchar Dnipro National University among similar facilities in Ukraine has been determined. For the first time, 40 years of experience in its activities as an integrated scientific and educational platform operating in crisis conditions have been systematized.

Practical Value. The materials of the work can be used in the training of biological specialists, the development of educational programs and methodological recommendations, the planning of eco-educational activities, as well as to justify further modernization and granting the complex the status of a national heritage object.

Keywords: Educational and Scientific Complex "Aquarium", Oles Honchar Dnipro National University, freshwater aquarium, hydrobiology, ichthyology, aquatic bioresources, education, energy independence, post-war reconstruction.

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