The CDB research aquarium serves as home to a number of water-dwelling species used in research into development and regeneration, including the zebrafish and the African clawed frog (Xenopus laevis). These, and other aquatic species, provide useful models for studies ranging from developmental genomics to classical embryology.

The aquarium includes temperature and humidity-controlled rooms geared to providing optimal climates for the handling and breeding of freshwater and marine species, and utilizes reverse osmotic technology to maintain consistent tank-water purity. In addition to the commonly used zebrafish and African clawed frog, the facility also houses specimens from more novel models used in evolutionary development research, such as the lamprey, Lampetra japonica, the hagfish, Eptatretus burger, and the soft-shelled turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis.