Mainz – What creatures thrive in what is probably the darkest habitat beneath our feet? The new special exhibition “Groundwater Lives!” at the Natural History Museum in Mainz takes visitors on a journey into the underground water world and explains that groundwater is far more than just water beneath the ground. It is a traveling exhibition from the Senkenberg Museum of Natural History in Görlitz and is now on display in Mainz. 

Groundwater is a habitat for highly specialized animals that have adapted to the conditions there over millions of years. Flatworms, groundwater isopods, and well crabs—they are all true masters of survival and demonstrate just how diverse life can be, even in this isolated habitat. 

The exhibition’s concept focuses on a museum experience rather than dry theory. At interactive stations, visitors can embark on their own journey of discovery and gain a glimpse into the mysterious inhabitants of the groundwater.

Anyone who’s always wanted to know what life is like as a tiny groundwater isopod will also get their money’s worth: through play, the perspective shifts, and a hidden world suddenly becomes huge. The olm, one of Europe’s most unusual animals, also makes its grand entrance.

In addition to the fascinating animal world, the exhibition also highlights the current state of groundwater. After all, what happens underground affects us all: Climate-related changes, such as drought, heavy rainfall, flooding, and falling groundwater levels, have a lasting impact on this underappreciated treasure. Groundwater accounts for about 70 percent of Europe’s drinking water and is therefore a vital part of the water cycle. Thus, groundwater is seen not only as a resource but also as a crucial component of climate, species, and nature conservation.

“Groundwater Lives!” aims to present science in an understandable way and make it accessible to as many people as possible. The exhibition therefore uses clear language and offers additional information via QR codes in German, English, French, and Polish. The content is also formatted for use with screen readers.

Information on the Special Exhibition 

Title: Groundwater Lives!

Dates: October 9, 2026, through February 14, 2027

Price: Museum admission 

Location: Natural History Museum, Reichklarastraße 1, 55116 Mainz, 2nd floor, special exhibition hall