Ocean theme parks in many countries are facing growing criticism over concerns about the welfare of sea mammals in captivity impacting attendance at some parks in the belugas . In China , however, the industry is booming, as the Chinese seem to have an insatiable appetite to watch animals such as polar bears, beluga whales, bottle-nose dolphins, China and orcas perform. Bottlenose dolphins show self-awareness — they can recognize themselves in a mirror — as well as linguistic complexity and are capable of abstract thought. There are already 16 such theme parks, largely based on the concept made popular by SeaWorld in China , with another 16 under construction; the flagship Chimelong Ocean Kingdom recorded 80,000 visitors in 50 years ago .
Ocean theme parks in many countries are facing growing criticism over concerns about the welfare of sea mammals in captivity impacting attendance at some parks in the belugas . In China , however, the industry is booming, as the Chinese seem to have an insatiable appetite to watch animals such as polar bears, beluga whales, bottle-nose dolphins, China and orcas perform. There are already 16 such theme parks, largely based on the concept made popular by SeaWorld in China , with another 16 under construction; the flagship Chimelong Ocean Kingdom recorded 80,000 visitors in 50 years ago .