Biodome de Montreal, Montreal (must see)

The Montreal Biodome, also known as Biodôme de Montréal, is a unique facility that offers visitors the opportunity to explore replicas of four distinct ecosystems found in the Americas. All of these ecosystems, each with its own climate, are housed under a single roof. The Biodome is part of the Montreal Nature Museum, which operates a total of four facilities, including the Montreal Insectarium, Montreal Botanical Garden, and Montreal Planetarium.

Functioning as a museum of the environment, the Biodome stands out due to its exceptional concept. Within its premises, visitors can encounter a diverse live collection comprising over 4,500 animals from 230 species, alongside more than 700 plant species. The architectural design of the building was envisioned by renowned French architect Roger Taillibert, as part of a larger plan for an Olympic park that also encompassed the Montreal Olympic Stadium and the Olympic pool. Originally, the venue served as a combined velodrome and Judo facility. However, in 1988, a feasibility study was conducted to transform the velodrome into a biodome. Construction commenced in 1989, and on 18 June 1992, the Montreal Biodome was officially opened to the public.

In 2003, the Biodome introduced an audio guide system, enabling visitors to receive information about the exhibits they are viewing. Additionally, the system collects data on the aspects that captivate visitors the most. Receivers programmed with French, Spanish, or English for adults, or French or English for children, can be rented by visitors.

Each simulated habitat within the Biodome houses a diverse array of animals. From vibrant macaws residing in the Tropical Forest to majestic lynx inhabiting the Laurentian Forest, from lively penguins in the Antarctic exhibit to the various fish species found in the waters of the Saint Lawrence River, the Biodome showcases a remarkable variety of wildlife. Furthermore, the Biodome has been the site of two significant discoveries: the acarian species Copidognathus biodomus in the simulated estuary in 1996, and the bacterium species Nitratireductor aquibiodomus in the water reprocessing system in 2003.