Jason Derulo is facing criticism from an animal welfare group after showing off the $1 million shark-and-stingray tank he installed in his home.
The “Whatcha Say” singer, 36, YouTuber gave N3 a tour In April at his $15 million estate in Tarzana, California, a custom-built aquarium was revealed beneath his living room floor.
The circular tank is covered in glass, allowing guests to walk above the animals swimming below.
During a home tour, Derulo said that “it took a lot of time and money” to build the tank.
“Basically, I found a guy who did pond construction, and then I asked the aquarium guys to put it all together,” he said.
“Then I had a different floor where the shards weren’t visible enough, so I decided to choose white (the background).”
The singer also said that the aquarium team comes to his house every two days to monitor the water and clean the tank.
However, the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) accused Derulo of setting a “bad example” after the tour clip. spread on tiktok.
“The Sharks are facing serious pressure – Danger from overfishingPollution and habitat destruction, many species are now considered endangered,” Christian Plowman, program manager for wildlife cybercrime at IFAW, said in a statement. Reported by The Mirror.
“They play a vital role in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems. The recent seizure of over 700 smuggled marine animals in Argentina is a stark reminder that the illegal ‘exotic’ pet trade extends far beyond those species most people think about.
“Sharks, rays and other marine animals are increasingly targeted to meet demand for home aquariums and luxury displays.”
Plowman also criticized celebrity displays of exotic animals.
“For some people, these animals have become the ultimate status symbol,” he said. “Singer Jason Derulo recently demonstrated a home shark tank. When celebrities and influencers with millions of followers consider wild animals as interior design features, the consequences reach far beyond their living rooms.
“Normalizing shark ownership in home tanks sends a harmful message to audiences around the world. If Derulo truly cares about these animals, he can use his platform as a powerful force for good.”
He said the singer could instead help educate the public and “challenge misconceptions” about marine wildlife.
“Help end a trade that is pushing some of the world’s most remarkable marine species closer to extinction,” Plowman said. “Right now, he’s setting a bad example.”
In a message directed to the public, they said: “IFAW urges the public not to like, share or engage with content that normalizes keeping wild animals as pets. Every interaction feeds algorithms – and ultimately, business.
“Sharks and other wild animals are not accessories. They are not displayed on the floor. They are not pets.”
Social media users also criticized Derulo, writing, “This is cruel,” while another commented, “Yeah, being rich is disappointing.”
It is legal to keep some small, non-endangered shark species in home aquariums in California, although animal welfare groups have long opposed the practice.
Derulo’s fascination with sharks is not new.
in 2023 he Spent nearly $30,000 on shark-themed second birthday party For his son Jason King, with a “Baby Shark” cake and sparklers.
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