The Kotka Maretarium is celebrating a significant milestone, as ten eels residing in its aquarium reach the age of fifty this year. This remarkable age is well-documented, as these eels originated from a stocking done in Lahti's Vesijärvi. They have lived at Maretarium since 2002, contributing to the aquarium's educational and conservation efforts. According to aquarist-diver Teemu Lakka, while older eels have been found in Finland, fifty years is an impressive age for an eel, illustrating both the care provided at the Maretarium and the unique conditions of Finnish waters.

Eels are known for their potential longevity, theoretically capable of living up to a century, although this has not been scientifically confirmed according to Lakka. He notes that the oldest recorded eel in Finland was 72 years old, emphasizing the rarity and significance of the fifty-year milestone. The climate and environmental conditions in Finland play a crucial role in the lifespan of these eels, as they are warm-water species that experience a shorter growth season in the colder northern waters, leading to delayed maturation compared to their southern counterparts.

With this celebration, the Maretarium aims to raise awareness about the preservation of eel populations, highlighting the delicate balance of their habitats and the factors contributing to their longevity. As visitors gather to commemorate this occasion, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable practices in aquaculture and conservation, ensuring that future generations will also have the opportunity to learn about these fascinating creatures.