Reviewing the role of aquaria as restorative settings: how subaquatic diversity in public aquaria can influence preferences, and human health and well-being

ABSTRACT

Throughout evolutionary history, humans have developed strong reactions to animals and landscape features that have either aided or hindered survival and well-being. Exposure to natural environments provides many perceived and actual health benefits, including reduced mental fatigue, improved mood, and decreased stress and anxiety. Studies exploring humans’ responses to their surroundings, however, tend to focus on terrestrial environments. In contrast, fewer studies have focused on humans’ reactions to aquatic settings, or the biodiversity found within them. We provide an overview of the various health and well-being benefits associated with humans’ relationships with different aquatic settings and focus on one particular setting: simulated underwater environments (aquaria). We provide a review of aquaria-related studies, including emerging research on how different subaquatic species influence human health and well-being outcomes. Finally, we suggest ways in which the benefits of underwater biodiversity can be further researched.

KEYWORDS:

• Biodiversity
• human health and well-being
• preferences
• public aquaria
• subaquatic biodiversity