Image: The aquarium's Tropical Bay of Rays habitat

Sydney Aquarium is to relaunch as a Sea Life-branded attraction in September following a six-month overhaul - its first major redevelopment since first opening in 1988.

Merlin Entertainments Group has invested AU$10m (US$10m, EUR8.3m, £6.6m) as part of its efforts to bring the Darling Harbour-based aquarium under the Sea Life banner.

The transformation has included the creation of 14 newly-themed zones, such as the Shark Walk; a Tropical Bay of Rays habitat; an interactive Touch Pool; and a Shipwreck area.

Sea Life Sydney Aquarium will also be home to one of the world's largest Oceanariums - holding 1.5 million litres (396,258 gallons) - and a new walk-through ocean tunnel.

The attraction joins Merlin's portfolio of nearly 40 Sea Life-branded aquariums located in 14 countries around the world, including the UK, Europe and North America.

Merlin is also responsible for operating attractions such as Madame Tussauds, Legoland parks and the UK's Alton Towers amusement park among others.

A spokesperson said: "The Sea Life brand is globally recognised as a centre of excellence for marine management, education, interactive exhibits and conservation."

Details: www.sydneyaquarium.com.au