Belgian wildlife sanctuary Pairi Daiza has unveiled its 10th landscaped environment, known as Edenya, situated within the largest tropical greenhouse on the globe. Its title as the largest tropical greenhouse has been officially acknowledged by the Guinness World Records.
The recently constructed zone is housed beneath a towering glass roof measuring 24 meters in height and spans four hectares. Within this area, there are approximately 230 diverse animal species, 1,800 different plant species, and 88 unique habitats, along with an exclusive underwater dining experience.
The recently opened habitat seamlessly integrates various tropical landscapes such as rainforests, rivers, beaches, and cliffs into one cohesive ecosystem. With an investment of approximately US$230 million, Edenya provides guests with an engaging rainforest encounter divided into five distinct viewing areas.
From the elevated walkways, the entirety of the greenhouse's size is revealed, as the ecosystem within it continues to develop. Over a period of time, it is anticipated that the trees will increase in height to eventually reach the higher levels, gradually altering the interior into a densely forested environment.
Numerous animal and plant species have been introduced, and more are expected to arrive in the upcoming months. The focal point of the attraction is a 17-meter-high waterfall, with a jaguar residing in the vicinity at its base.
According to the information provided on Edenya's website, the greenhouse contains nearly 1,800 plant species as well as over 5,000 cacti and euphorbias. Rare examples consist of the coco de mer, which is indigenous to the Seychelles, as well as two direct offspring of the Buddha tree.
Edenya has numerous animals that are connected to global conservation initiatives, with the Pairi Daiza Foundation providing assistance to various species such as the Komodo dragon, West Indian manatee, Parson's chameleon, loggerhead sea turtle, and jaguar.
Pairi Daiza's founder and president, Eric Domb, expressed his objective as nurturing an emotional bond between guests and the natural environment. The complete greenhouse is equipped with temperature control systems to mimic the environment of the equatorial region, maintaining a consistent tropical climate throughout the year.
The structure is shielded by a uniquely crafted glass covering that is five times more effective at insulation than a typical greenhouse, thus enabling it to consistently uphold a minimum temperature of 18°C. The regulation of climate is achieved by employing a combination of strategic ventilation, misting technology, and heat pump systems.
The website relies exclusively on solar energy produced by photovoltaic carports, and plans are in progress for a geothermal initiative to further enhance energy self-sufficiency. Edenya's debut signifies the most recent phase in the evolutionary progression of Pairi Daiza since its inception in 1994. The transformation has resulted in the creation of a collection of intricately designed themed environments, featuring diverse settings such as polar regions, African savannas, and Asian-influenced habitats that are home to elephants and giant pandas.