Monterey Bay Aquarium Open Ocean Tank
The Monterey Bay Aquarium Open Ocean Tank is one of the largest aquarium exhibits in the world. It is one of the main attractions of the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which is located in Monterey, California. The Open Ocean Tank is home to a variety of marine animals, including sea turtles, sharks, and tuna. It is designed to mimic the open ocean environment, providing visitors with a unique and immersive experience.
History of the Open Ocean Tank
The Monterey Bay Aquarium was founded in 1984 by a group of marine biologists, educators, and community leaders. The Open Ocean Tank was one of the original exhibits planned for the aquarium. It was designed by Peter Chermayeff, an architect and exhibit designer who had previously worked on the New England Aquarium in Boston.
The Open Ocean Tank was opened to the public in 1996. It was the largest exhibit of its kind at the time, and it quickly became one of the most popular exhibits at the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Features of the Open Ocean Tank
The Open Ocean Tank is 28 feet deep and holds more than one million gallons of water. It is home to a variety of marine animals, including hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, and tuna. The tank is designed to mimic the open ocean environment, with artificial waves and currents that create a realistic ocean experience for visitors.
The tank also features a kelp forest exhibit, which showcases the unique ecosystem of the California coast. The kelp forest exhibit is home to a variety of fish, including sardines and anchovies, as well as sea otters.
Conservation efforts
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is committed to conservation efforts, and the Open Ocean Tank is no exception. The aquarium works with a variety of organizations to promote sustainable fishing practices and protect marine habitats. The aquarium also conducts research on a variety of marine species, including sea turtles and sharks.
The Open Ocean Tank is designed to educate visitors about the importance of conservation and sustainability. The exhibits showcase the diversity of marine life and the impact that humans can have on the ocean environment. Visitors are encouraged to make small changes in their daily lives to help protect the ocean and its inhabitants.
Visiting the Open Ocean Tank
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is open daily from 10am to 5pm, with extended hours during the summer months. Admission prices vary depending on age and membership status. Visitors can purchase tickets online or at the aquarium.
The Open Ocean Tank is one of the most popular exhibits at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, so visitors should plan to arrive early to avoid long lines. The aquarium also offers a variety of tours and programs, including behind-the-scenes tours of the Open Ocean Tank.
Conclusion
The Monterey Bay Aquarium Open Ocean Tank is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in marine life and conservation. The tank is home to a variety of marine animals, and it is designed to provide visitors with an immersive and educational experience. The aquarium's commitment to conservation and sustainability makes it a leader in marine conservation efforts, and visitors are encouraged to learn more about the impact that humans can have on the ocean environment.
