SINGAPORE : Singapore's Underwater World has launched its new exhibit - Ocean Invaders - which gives the public a chance to learn about marine life without getting wet.

The remote-operated vehicle (ROV), which weighs less than 4 kilogrammes, is used by scientists for filming and exploration in dangerous waters, and it comes equipped with a camera, lights and even a sonar for search and rescue missions.

But at the oceanarium, visitors can explore the living reefs and get a better view of the fish, with the help of a huge television screen.

One child commented, "You can move the submersible around and chase after the fish."

Another said, "I can go near the fish and see how it looks like."

Dr Jeffrey Mahon, Curatorial Director, Underwater World, said, "This ROV exhibit - which is the first in Asia - allows you to get up close and personal with the fish in our aquarium, and hopefully, it will inspire children here to do more ocean exploration in the future."

The device costs US$8,000. The oceanarium believes it is a worthwhile investment to get children interested in learning more about marine life. - CNA/ms