Chibi Maruko-chan [Season 1 Episode 36: Maru-chan Gets Tropical Fish!]

Episode 36 Review: “Maru-chan Gets Tropical Fish!” – A Heartwarming Yet Hilarious Slice of Life

Chibi Maruko-chan has always been a beloved anime for its nostalgic charm and relatable storytelling, and Episode 36, titled “Maru-chan Gets Tropical Fish!”, is no exception. This episode perfectly captures the essence of childhood—full of excitement, jealousy, and unexpected disasters—all wrapped in the show’s signature humor and warmth.

A Quick Recap

Maruko, the ever-energetic and slightly mischievous protagonist, finally gets her hands on the tropical fish she’s been dreaming of. But as any kid knows, getting what you want often comes with a catch—literally, in this case. The episode kicks off with Maruko’s excitement quickly turning into frustration when her mom buys a fish tank for her sister after previously rejecting Maruko’s request. The sibling rivalry is real, and it’s hilarious.

Things take a wild turn when Tama-chan, Maruko’s friend, suggests adding Maruko’s crayfish to the tank. What could go wrong, right? Well, everything. The crayfish, in a twist that’s both tragic and darkly funny, proceeds to hunt down and devour all the tropical fish. The sheer horror on Maruko’s face when she realizes what’s happening is priceless, and it’s moments like these that make Chibi Maruko-chan so endearing.

Why This Episode Stands Out

1. Relatable Childhood Drama
   The episode nails the emotional rollercoaster of being a kid. One minute, you’re over the moon because you finally got something you wanted; the next, your world is crumbling because your pet crayfish turned into a serial killer. Fans on MyAnimeList pointed out how this episode perfectly captures the innocence and unpredictability of childhood.

2. Sibling Rivalry Done Right
   Maruko’s jealousy toward her sister is something many viewers can relate to. The way the show handles this dynamic—without making it overly dramatic—adds a layer of authenticity. It’s not about deep-seated resentment; it’s just the fleeting frustrations of being the younger sibling.

3. The Unexpected Twist
   The crayfish’s rampage is both shocking and hilarious. It’s a classic Chibi Maruko-chan moment—taking something mundane and turning it into a mini-disaster. Fans loved how the show doesn’t shy away from the darker (or at least, more chaotic) side of childhood experiences.

Fan Reactions

Digging into discussions on MyAnimeList, it’s clear that this episode left a lasting impression. One fan noted:

“Maruko finally got the tropical fish she wanted, but of course, things didn’t go as planned. The crayfish twist was so unexpected and funny—I couldn’t stop laughing even though I felt bad for her!”

Another viewer appreciated the episode’s simplicity:

“This is why I love Chibi Maruko-chan. It’s just a kid being a kid, and the show makes even the smallest moments feel special.”

Final Thoughts

“Maru-chan Gets Tropical Fish!” is a standout episode that encapsulates everything fans adore about Chibi Maruko-chan: humor, heart, and a touch of chaos. It’s a reminder that childhood is messy, unpredictable, and full of lessons—even if those lessons come from a crayfish with a taste for expensive fish.

If you’re looking for a lighthearted yet meaningful anime experience, this episode (and the series as a whole) is a must-watch. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Maruko’s world, this episode will leave you smiling—and maybe a little wary of mixing crayfish with tropical fish.

Rating: 9/10 – A delightful blend of nostalgia, comedy, and childhood realism.

What did you think of the episode? Share your thoughts in the comments!