The Adam R Scripps Living Seas Gallery is now open, beckoning visitors to dive into the ocean’s critical role in research and world operation.
Larger than the featured Giant Pacific Octopus, Giant Black Sea Bass and Loggerhead turtle is the enormous impact the oceans have on the world, illustrated in the newest exhibit at the Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego.
The Adam R Scripps Living Seas Gallery replaces the former Hall of Fishes and is now open after months of construction, the aquarium’s largest capital project at $18.7 million.
Exposing visitors to life under the Scripps Pier and at the bottom of the submarine canyons and winding through coral reefs, kelp forests and tropical habitats, the Living Seas exhibit is intended to be a visually engaging look at previously inaccessible underwater microcosms.
The journey is upgraded with cutting-edge technology including pumps and cooling systems, along with digital projections and UV-responsive wallpaper (loaner blacklights provided!), leading guests on a chase for facts both visual and audio hidden on the walls and floors.
Living Seas also highlights the innovative research of Scripps Oceanography, bringing topics like how Sunflower Sea Stars are being saved to how jellies connect to cancer research right to the viewers.
The gallery’s name stems from a gift of The Adam R Scripps Foundation to honor the foundation’s commitment to ocean education and conservation.
“Today is a celebration of collaboration between our scientists, educators, supporters and the community, all working together to better understand and protect our ocean world,” UCSD Chancellor Pradeep Khosla said at a May 21 “kelp cutting” to open the exhibit.
Living Seas is included in the cost of aquarium admission. Advanced reservations are required except for members. Hours and prices vary. Visit aquarium.ucsd.edu for more information.
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