Birch Aquarium At Scripps Institution Of Oceanography
Introduction
Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography is a public aquarium situated in La Jolla, California, United States. It is a significant part of the University of California San Diego and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in San Diego County. The aquarium offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the fascinating world of the ocean and its inhabitants.
History
The Birch Aquarium was established in 1903 by William Emerson Ritter, who was the first director of the Scripps Institute of Oceanography. The aquarium started as a small collection of marine specimens that were used for research purposes. It was later opened to the public in 1905, and since then, it has been educating and entertaining visitors of all ages.
Exhibits
The aquarium boasts of several exhibits that showcase a wide range of marine life. One of the most popular exhibits is the Kelp Forest, which is a living representation of the underwater kelp forest ecosystem found off the coast of Southern California. The exhibit features a 70,000-gallon tank that houses a diverse range of species such as leopard sharks, garibaldi fish, and giant sea bass.
Another popular exhibit is the Hall of Fishes, which features over 60 tanks that display various species of fish from around the world. The tanks are organized based on the type of habitat the fish come from, such as coral reefs, rocky shores, and deep sea.
The Boundless Energy exhibit is another must-see exhibit that showcases the power of ocean waves and currents. The exhibit features a wave machine that simulates ocean waves and demonstrates how they can be used to generate clean energy.
Events and Programs
The Birch Aquarium hosts several events and programs throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the Green Flash Concert Series, which features live music and stunning ocean views. The aquarium also offers several educational programs for children and adults, such as guided tours, summer camps, and workshops.
Conclusion
Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography is a fascinating place to explore the ocean world. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about marine life and conservation efforts. If you are ever in the San Diego area, make sure to visit and experience the wonders of the ocean.
