Britain's national museum of modern art is facing accusations of neglect after the deaths of fishes in an art installation.
The art installation is part of an exhibit of works by Brazilian conceptual artist Cildo Meireles that ended on 11 February at the Tate Modern.
Two artworks, Atraves, or Through, and Red Shift in the exhibit featured 55 Glass catfish (Kryptopterus minor) and Indian glass fish (Parambassis ranga) in three tanks.
Over the course of the 13-week exhibition, 12 of the 55 fish have died, prompting condemnation of the use of live fish in the exhibit from animal rights organizations.
According to a spokesman for the RSPCA, The RSPCA opposes any so-called art exhibition that causes animals of any species distress or suffering. The RSPCA believes that fish are capable of feeling pain and suffering, they therefore should be treated with respect and in a manner that minimises the risk of harm.
We are concerned about the deaths of the 12 fish in this instance. If this art exhibition involved dogs, then there would be a national outcry, why should the use of fish be any different?
In a reply to the criticisms, a spokesman from Tate Modern said The fish are an integral part of these artworks. Tate sourced the fish from a reputable aquarium specialist who advised on appropriate conditions to ensure their welfare. Tate carefully maintained these conditions throughout the exhibition.
The artist was unavailable for comment.