Aquarium animals come to us from many places and in many different ways. Many animals arrive at the Aquarium as part of an exchange program with other large aquariums, zoos and universities. Most of the tropical fish are flown to the Aquarium from dealers around the world. The Aquarium tries to buy fish from sustainable fisheries and conservation-based associations and only purchases from dealers who collect fish with nets, and not chemicals or explosives.

Many animals are donated to the Aquarium by fishers, local aquarists, sport divers and scientists. Some are caught with nets or lines from boats. Aquarium divers have permits to collect marine invertebrates including octopuses, sea stars, sea anemones, and species of fish. Other collectors walk out from the beach with seine nets to gather local invertebrates and fishes.

Many animals are also born into our care. Once in the Aquarium, most animals live for many years.

Permission is granted by the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre for classroom teachers to make copies for non-commercial use. This permission does not extend to copying for promotional purposes, creating new collective works, or resale.