Ocean Explorer
Ocean Explorer features saltwater species from all over the world. You´ll find sea jellies, eels, seahorses and 6 different species of sharks. Learn about why coral reefs are so important to our planet and find out the importance of invertebrates at the Bio-Facts Station. Interactive exhibits include the stingray touch tank and the coral community where the younger children can "swim" around through this magical coral reef, imagining what it would be like to be a fish at the bottom of the ocean.
Feature Exhibits Include:
GREEN SEA TURTLE
A rescued sea turtle currently resides in our 15,000 gallon shark tank. A few years ago the 40lb Green Sea Turtle was severely bitten by a large shark and then hit by a boat, and shortly thereafter was rescued by The Turtle Hospital in Florida. She has a large semi-circular wound (approx 12 inches in diameter) on its right side. After a year of care she was still unable to fully submerge and therefore would not survive in the wild on her own, causing her to be non-releasable. In order to assist the turtle with buoyancy, custom made lead weights have been applied to her shell with marine epoxy and Velcro. All turtles float differently and at different angles, therefore the appropriate weight is placed on the back and sides of the shell. Currently, the turtle requires 304 grams of weight in order to dive and swim comfortably. The marine epoxy which holds the weight to her carapace will last 6 months to a year. The weight will eventually fall off and need to be re-applied. More weight will need to be added as the years pass and the turtle grows larger. This sea turtle is a must-see during your next visit. Be careful—She is so adorable that she may steal your heart!
Want to learn more? Purchase your admission ticket today!
STINGRAY TOUCH POOL
The Aquarium’s stingray habitat is one of the most popular exhibits in the Ocean Explorer Gallery. Every day, Aquarium visitors flock to this touch pool for a chance to touch some of these graceful creatures. It is not unusual to find some rays rising to the surface to find a hand to rub against.
Want to learn more? Purchase your admission ticket today!
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STINGRAY FEEDINGS
See what it's like for a slimy fish to be eaten up by a stingray, right from your hand! Kids and adults alike get to experience feeding fish to live stingrays. Being so up close and personal is surely something you will remember for a lifetime!
2:00pm Friday-Wednesday
$6 per ticket ($5.40 for aquarium members)
1 person per tray of food.
Child may be accompanied by 1 adult.
Limit 10 people per feeding.
Must be 5 years of age or older to participate.
