Aquarium of the Pacific Introduces Two New Exhibits

All photos by Elise Thompson for The Los Angeles Beat unless otherwise noted

June 8th is World Ocean Day. What better day to go to the Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific and learn about sea life, especially the conservation of species that are endangered?

There are two new exhibits featuring more than two dozen species that reveal keys to preventing extinctions in the ocean. The Horses and Dragons exhibit features Seahorses, Seadragons and Pipefish.  These fascinating sea creatures are considered “Near Threatened,” but the Aquarium of the Pacific has been successful in breeding the adorable winged horses in captivity.

This leafy seadragon from Australia is the last generation to be in captivity; if they don’t have babies this time around, there won’t be any more dragons at the aquarium.

The “Vanishing Animals” gallery features more than a dozen aquatic and terrestrial species that are at risk of extinction, as well as multimedia stations, exhibit panels and videos for the public to learn more about how we can prevent mass extinctions and limit permanent changes to the ocean.  We have already helped to prevent the extinction of the American Alligator. The aquarium’s new resident alligators are barely 10-inches long right now, but they can grow to weigh 1,000 pounds.

Both exhibits will be on display through March 31, 2017.

Between June 4th and June 8th, visitors will receive $10 off regular adult admission by taking public transit with Orange County Transportation Authority and Long Beach Transit to the Aquarium.  Present proof at the ticket windows. Aquarium of the Pacific General admission: $29.95 adult (12+), $26.95 senior (62+), and $17.95 child (3-11)