Spring 2016

member magazine of the aquarium of the pacific & Focus on Sustainability CIE N CE (2015) auley et al, S auley C M c Nicolle R. Fulle r , SayoStudio.com/ Nicolle

Human impacts on have increased over time, but to date we have had more of an impact on land than in the ocean. hroughout human history, our activity has had an In the terrestrial portion, visitors will encounter a habitat modeled impact on terrestrial animals, those that live on land. With after a freshwater stream. These ecosystems are among the most T the rise of agriculture and the Industrial Revolution, human seriously threatened by pollution, land development, the introduc- activity had an increasing impact on the natural world. This tion of non-native invasive , and other activity. The animals has resulted in extinctions of numerous species and has permanently displayed in this exhibit will include local stream , newts, and changed the shape and make-up of land environments. We are poised salamanders, as well as invasive species like crayfish. Next, an exhibit to have the same effect on the ocean, but are at a crucial point—if we housing juvenile American alligators will provide an example of an act now, we can avoid mass extinctions and limit permanent changes endangered species success story. to the ocean. This was among the findings of a paper published in the As visitors move into the aquatic side of the gallery, they will see an journal Science in January 2015 (Marine defaunation: loss in the exhibit modeled after a . One side will show healthy corals global ocean). A new exhibition at the Aquarium, Vanishing Animals, and the other will be overgrown with algae, a problem attributed translates the concepts detailed in the paper into a gallery of live to harmful fishing practices that remove beneficial from reef animal exhibits, multimedia stations, exhibit panels, and videos for the ecosystems that feed on algae, and runoff of nutrient-rich waters. public to learn more about this important moment in time. The Another exhibit will showcase species that fish farmers propagate exhibition opens to the public on May 27. Aquarium members can in the aquaculture industry, including white abalone, mussels, and attend previews on May 22 (see page 10 for details). oysters. Aquaculture is an example of a practice that when done Dr. Douglas McCauley, the paper's lead author, came to the responsibly could limit the impacts of overfishing and harmful fishing Aquarium in November 2015 to give a lecture and meet with while providing a stable source of seafood for the world’s growing Aquarium educators to develop the themes and stories in the human population. The gallery will also feature Atlantic cod, a species exhibition. Dr. Elizabeth Hadly of and Dr. Anthony that has been overfished to the point of commercial extinction. Finally, Barnosky of the University of California, Berkeley, also contributed an exhibit called Project Piaba will tell the story of a well-managed to the exhibit. Dr. McCauley will return to give another lecture at the freshwater fishery for fish like cardinal tetras and discus collected Aquarium in September (see page 13 for details). sustainably in South America for hobbyist aquariums. The visitor Housed in the changing exhibits gallery near the Aquarium’s experience closes with a video that summarizes the major findings entrance, Vanishing Animals highlights impacts of human history on and conclusions of the article in Science that stimulated the develop- land resulting in terrestrial animal extinctions, tells stories of rebounds ment of the exhibition. from near-extinction, then shows how we have the opportunity in the Visitors will also be able to learn more about animal extinctions and near future to avert a similar path in the ocean. Upon entering the gal- our relationship with our planet through a new show for the National lery, guests will learn in the first half about the stories of animals and Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Science on a Sphere and a habitats on land. In the second half, they will learn about the future of twelve-minute film in the Ocean Theater. Both will play daily. the ocean.

2 | Pacific Currents | Spring 2016 In this Issue

2 Focus on Sustainability | A new exhibition at the Aquarium, Vanishing Letter from the CEO Animals, examines animal extinctions on Dear Members, 2 land and how we can prevent extinctions in the ocean. ach time the Aquarium debuts new exhibitions, we hope to help our visitors 4 Animal Updates | In addition E learn more about the ocean and its inhabit- to species and American ants. Horses and Dragons, one of our new alligators never before displayed at exhibits opening on May 27, will display more than a dozen species the Aquarium, learn about two new of , seadragons, and other fishes in this beautiful and shorebird species now on view. diverse family of marine life. These animals have fascinated humans 4 for centuries, with the delicate structure of their bodies, their unusual shapes and dazzling colors, and the fact that males carry 6 Horses and Dragons | At the and give birth to the young. Aquarium this summer, see more than a Today, seahorses, seadragons, , and their relatives are em- dozen species of seahorses, seadragons, blematic of pressures on the ocean around the world, from pollution and their relatives in the Horses and and habitat degradation to destructive fishing practices and overhar- Dragons exhibit opening May 27. vesting. As you visit Horses and Dragons this summer, I hope you will 6 take time to learn about the ways we can help protect these animals and preserve the habitats they and other marine species inhabit. The new Vanishing Animals exhibition, the second and larger of our | Stories 27 Conservation Corner two new exhibitions, located in the changing gallery space near the about animals rebounding from front entrance, is another important opportunity for learning about near-extinction can guide us to help the of ocean animals. Based on a 2015 study endangered species. published in the journal Science, this exhibit takes the latest research and translates it into animal displays, interactive exhibits, and videos to 27 help the public learn about the important issue of animal extinctions. We are at a crucial point in the history of humans’ relationship with our planet—our activity has had a dramatic impact on land, and we have the opportunity now to shape the future of the ocean before human 3 Letter from the CEO 21 Aquarium News impacts become too great. Actions we take now can help avoid the 10 Aquarium Programs & Events 24 Fundraising rate of extinctions we have seen on land from occurring in the ocean. Both Horses and Dragons and Vanishing Animals include species 16 Education Programs 26 Accolades we have never displayed before at the Aquarium. These exhibitions 18 Kids Corner also bring you the latest science to help you understand what is happening in the ocean today and empower you to take action. We hope you leave inspired and informed. Pacific Currents is published for members of the Phone Numbers (562 area code) In addition, new films, lectures, and shows highlighting these Aquarium of the Pacific. Please send your comments General Information...... 590-3100 topics will be part of the Aquarium’s summer programming. In to our editorial staff at [email protected]. FAX...... 951-1629 the Ocean Science Center, a new show connected with Vanishing Our Mission | To instill a sense of wonder, Membership...... 437-FISH (3474) Animals will play daily on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric respect, and stewardship for the Pacific Ocean, its Development...... 951-1605 Administration’s Science on a Sphere®. Titled The Only Thing That is inhabitants, and ecosystems. Pacific Circle...... 951-5387 Constant is Change, this show explores how life on Earth is constant- Our Vision | To create an aquarium dedicated to Lost & Found...... 951-1733 ly changing, but humans have increased the rate of change. Learn conserving and building natural capital (nature and Private Event Info...... 951-1663 about the threat of extinctions and their impact on ecosystems and nature's services) by building social capital (the Education Programs...... 590-1300 what we can do to give the life with which we share our planet a interactions between and among peoples). Gift Store...... 951-1SEA (1732) chance to adapt and thrive. Pacific Currents Staff | Editor/Writer: Claire Advanced Ticket Sales....590-3100, ext. 0 These are important topics facing the ocean and our planet. In Atkinson | Copy Editor: Cecile Fisher | Designer: (Note: $2 service charge per ticket, up to $10.) addition to these plans, the Aquarium has announced a campaign Andrew Reitsma | Contributing Writers: Erin Group Reservations...... 590-3100 to support the construction of a new front wing called Pacific English, Alana Garibaldi, and Lindsay Yates. Visions, which will include additional exhibit space, the cutting- aquarium Hours | Open daily from 9:00 a.m.– edge Honda Pacific Visions Theater, and space for art installations 6:00 p.m. except December 25 and during the cover: and performances. To learn more and contribute to the campaign, Ribbon dragon Grand Prix of Long Beach. Photo by Brian Gray visit our website. We are proud to bring you the latest science so Membership Office Hours you and your family can help support conservation efforts here in 8:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m. daily our community and beyond.

Thank you for your ongoing support. The Aquarium of the Pacific is a non-profit 501(c)3 institution. To provide exciting Sincerely, and innovative exhibits and educational programs, we rely heavily on the generous donations of individuals, foundations, and corporations. Aquarium Founding Sponsor Jerry R. Schubel Spring 2016 | Pacific Currents | 3 Animal Updates

dwarf seahorse Seahorse Hippocampus zosterae Species New to the Aquarium on View

wo of the species that are part of the Horses and Dragons T exhibition at the Aquarium will be on display here for the first time, the longsnout seahorse (Hippocampus reidi) and dwarf seahorse (Hippocampus zosterae). Longsnout seahorses, also known as slender seahorses, are found in the western Atlantic Ocean along the U.S. East Coast, around Bermuda and the Bahamas to South America. They spend their time attached to or soft corals, but also sometimes swim freely in midwater or among seaweed beds. They can grow up to about 7 inches long. There is a minor commercial fishery for longsnout seahorses. The dwarf seahorse is one of the smallest seahorse species, growing up to about 2 inches long. Dwarf seahorses are found in the western Atlantic, including Bermuda, southern Florida, the Bahamas, and the Gulf of Mexico. They live in shallow grass flats and are active during daytime. There is a minor commercial fishery for dwarf seahorses. The 2009 Guinness Book of World Records named this species the slowest-swimming fish. Both species are in exhibits located in the Tropical Pacific Gallery beginning May 27.

There are minor commercial fisheries for both dwarf and longsnout seahorses.

Longsnout seahorse Hippocampus reidi

4 | Pacific Currents | Spring 2016 Animal Updates dwarf seahorse Hippocampus zosterae Juvenile American Alligators Displayed in Vanishing Animals Exhibit

group of juvenile American alligators will be on display in the Vanishing Animals exhibit opening on May 27 in A the changing exhibit gallery near the front entrance. The American alligator is found in freshwater rivers, swamps, and lakes in the southeastern U.S. Females can grow to just over 8 feet long, and the average size for a male is 11 feet. Juveniles grow about a foot a year. Juveniles have bright yellow stripes on their tails, while adults have dark stripes. These animals hunt for turtles, fish, birds, frogs, and mammals that come to the water’s edge. American alligators have a lifespan of about fifty years in the wild. This species was hunted for leather until populations were severely depleted to near extinction. In 1967 it was listed as endangered by the U.S. government. Monitoring by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, rein- troduction into the wild, and breeding on alligator farms have allowed the species to fully recover.

Black Oystercatcher Two New Species on Display in Shorebird Habitat

he Aquarium has added two new species to the Shorebird Sanctuary exhibit located outdoors on the second floor adjacent to the June Keyes Penguin T Habitat. The first is a pair of White Ibises (Eudocimus albus) that came to the Aquarium at the end of 2015 from another institution. The Aquarium is displaying this species for the first time. The male ibis is seven years old, and the female is eleven years old. The female is the smaller of the two birds. Native to Florida and other coastal areas of the Southeastern U.S., White Ibises are wading birds that feed in flocks and nest in large colonies. They feed mostly on crustaceans like crayfish and crabs, using their specialized bill to forage in shallow water. White Ibises have seen their populations decrease in recent decades due to loss of feeding and nesting habitat. The other recent addition to the Shorebird Sanctuary is a male Black Oystercatcher (Haematopus bachmani) hatched on July 1, 2015, that was rehabilitated by a bird rescue organization and deemed non-releasable to the wild before coming to the Aquarium. Black Oystercatchers can be found along the West Coast of North America from Alaska to Mexico. They spend their time on rocky shorelines foraging at low tide for mussels, limpets, and other shellfish. Pairs may mate for life, nesting mostly on islands at elevated areas well above the high-tide mark. These birds are vulnerable to oil spills and other pollution as well as human encroachment or disturbance at their nesting sites. n Ri ggs Robi

White Ibises

Longsnout seahorse Hippocampus reidi

Spring 2016 | Pacific Currents | 5 n Ri ggs Robi People have a long-standing fascination with seahorses and seadragons...

with their intricately armored and appendage-adorned bodies, chameleon-like eyes, and the dutiful dads that incubate the eggs and even give birth. Humans throughout history have created mythologies about ocean-dwelling horses and dragons, whether inspired by the sea creatures them- selves or fanciful inventions.

6 | Pacific Currents | Spring 2016 * At the Aquarium his summer see more than a dozen species of seahorses, seadragons, and their relatives in the Horses and Dragons exhibit opening May 27. Pacific seahorses native to our local area will be displayed in Tthe Southern California/Baja gallery, a trumpetfish will be exhibited in the Gulf of California exhibit on the second floor, and various species of seahorses, seadragons, pipefish, razorfish, and other animals from this family will be displayed in the Tropical Pacific gallery. The longsnout seahorse and dwarf seahorse have never before been exhibited at the Aquarium. Visitors will learn how we care for and breed these animals at the Aquarium, see babies, and learn about the conservation issues these animals face in the wild. There will also be a show projected in the Great Hall and an educational puppet show in the Marine Life Theater daily. Check the insert in the Map and Visitor Guide for show times.

* Biology and Distribution * Feeding Seahorses and seadragons, as well as pipefish and ribbonfish, Syngnathids do not have are all in the family , which contains more than 200 teeth or stomachs. Because species. The word Syngnathidae comes from the Greek words they lack stomachs and syn, meaning fused or together, and gnathus, meaning jaws. All therefore cannot store syngnathids have fused jaws, as well as other common charac- nutrients, they eat almost teristics: They have rigid bodies and swim by rapidly fluttering constantly, feeding on their fins, males incubate the eggs and hatch the young, and mysid and other small they live in temperate and tropical waters. Seahorses tend to crustaceans, plankton, and larval live between three to five years, while seadragons typically have fish. They use their long, thin, tubular lifespans of five to seven years. snouts to create a strong suction with Only three official species of seadragon have been discovered: which to rapidly intake in their food. The feeding movement of the leafy, weedy, and ruby seadragon, which was only just syngnathids is among the fastest-known movement of a verte- discovered in 2015. Josefin Stiller, the scientist who made this brate animal—it takes just six milliseconds for them to suck in discovery, will give a talk at the Aquarium on July 19 (see page food items. They expand a joint on the lower part of their snouts 13 for details). Seadragons are found only in the ocean waters and swallow their prey whole. Special muscles in the snout can off the southern and western coasts of . They inhabit widen to accommodate different sizes of prey. They use their temperate coastal waters where there are rocky reefs, sand camouflaging abilities to ambush prey that floats nearby. patches, seaweed beds, and meadows. Seahorses, Seahorses make a clicking, popping, or chirping noise when however, are much more widespread. They are found all over the feeding caused by the movements of their jaws. Scientists world in tropical and temperate shallow waters. have also observed the noise underwater when the animals are Seahorses are fish, with a bony spine, gills, and swim blad- disturbed. At the Aquarium, aquarists report being able to hear der. They also have rigid bony plates covering their bodies and the sound and feel the vibrations it causes during feeding times. prehensile tails that they use to grasp and anchor themselves to When about 100 lined seahorses were previously on display, seagrass or coral on the seafloor. They use dorsal and pectoral aquarists say the noises could be heard from outside the exhibit. fins for locomotion. Seahorses beat their fins up to forty times The Aquarium’s juvenile seadragons and seahorses are fed a second—too fast to be visible to the human eye. Most syn- and rotifers, microscopic animals that are propa- gnathids stay close to their home habitat, not being very strong gated on site. Adults are fed mysid shrimp. The Aquarium’s swimmers. However, since they can be carried by strong currents divers are often able to collect live mysid shrimp locally. Live food or drift with floating ocean debris, some end up miles from is more nutritious and more enriching, because the seahorses their birthplace. There is one exception: Pot-bellied seahorses and seadragons have to hunt for it. Frozen food is used to ensure sometimes swim hundreds of yards during the course of a day. a steady supply when live mysid shrimp are not available. Seadragons grow to a maximum length of about 18 inches. Syngnathids’ natural prey, mysid shrimp, constantly graze in Like seahorses, the outer skin of seadragons is solid, limiting their the wild leaving their stomachs packed with nutrients. To repli- mobility. They swim through the water by rapidly oscillating their cate this in an aquarium environment, the aquarists have begun small, almost translucent fins and using their tails as rudders. to experiment with supplements to the seadragons’ food. The Adaptations that help syngnathids evade predators and find seadragons are also fed more frequently throughout each day prey include their ability to change the color of their skin to blend than the other syngnathids. The frequent feedings and supple- in with the flora and fauna in their habitat. Their markings and ments are implemented to ensure the seadragons have excess appendages also contribute to their camouflage. In addition, their energy to put toward reproduction. bony exterior might be a deterrent to some predators, as it makes them harder to swallow. Their eyes can move independently like a chameleon’s to help spot their prey.

Spring 2016 | Pacific Currents | 7 * Propagation and Reproduction

Weedy sea dragons usually become fully grown and ready for breeding at two years old. Like their seahorse relatives, male sea dragons brood the eggs. However, the eggs are incubated on the underside of the tail on a brood patch instead of in a brood pouch, like that of seahorses. The female lays between 250 and 300 eggs. She deposits them in the skin of the male to be fertilized, covering most of the undersides and sides of his tail. Incubation lasts six to eight weeks. When hatching starts, the male releases only a few eggs at a time. He may take from hours to days to release the entire brood. Br iti s h M u eum In ancient Greek mythology, Poseidon, the god of the sea, was thought to travel in a golden chariot pulled by a team of four mythical creatures, half-horse and half-fish, depicted here on the fourth century Roman Great Dish discovered in 1942 with the Mildenhall Treasure.

* Mythological Creatures With their widespread distribution the Fertile Crescent region of Lebanon, in the World Ocean, seahorses have Israel, and Syria, to cultures from across been pulled up in fishermen’s nets and Europe and Asia. Stone carvings from intrigued people for thousands of years. Celtic cultures originating in seventh While they may not have been inspired century Scotland depict a creature Seahorses go through a similar process, by real syngnathids, many cultures have resembling seahorses. The Seri Indian with the males incubating eggs in their imagined the existence of undersea people from Mexico have a fable that brood pouches for four to six weeks. At horses. doubles as a seahorse origin story about the Aquarium, aquarists report that male Drawings made by Aboriginal people a man who lived on Tiburon Island in seahorses seem to release their young early 6,000 years ago in Australia depict the the Gulf of California and was chased in the morning. Seahorses form pairs that Rainbow Serpent, a creator deity, and into the ocean with a sandal tucked last the duration of the breeding season. bear a striking resemblance to sea- into his belt. This sandal turned into the The Aquarium’s staff members who care for horses and ribbon dragons. Scientists seahorse’s dorsal fin, according to this seahorses say that it is easy to spot these theorize that some of these images were legend. pairs during the breeding season because created during a sea level rise event and In medieval Europe merchants they often latch together by their tails and heavy storms that drove the creatures hawked seahorses claiming they were follow each other around the tank. nearer to shore or perhaps caused them baby dragons. Seahorses were included In 2002 the Aquarium of the Pacific was to wash up onto beaches. in bestiaries, catalogues of animals the first facility in the world to successfully In ancient Greek mythology, Poseidon, also known as a book of beasts, which breed weedy sea dragons. Juveniles bred the god of the sea, was thought to travel aligned with a medieval belief that all at the Aquarium were distributed to other in a golden chariot pulled by a team of animals found on land had a counterpart aquariums and zoos across the United States. four mythical creatures, half-horse and in the ocean as a reflection of divine Aquarists shared the processes and methods half-fish. This composite animal, called symmetry. they used with colleagues at other facili- hippocampus (hippo meaning horse and While seadragons have historically ties. The Aquarium’s staff members have kampus meaning monster in Greek), was been less well-known around the world recently begun to alter various aspects of depicted in murals and statues and on because of their limited range, they still the seadragons‘ habitats to better simulate pottery, coins, and jewelry. Fishermen have a mythological connotation be- conditions in the wild and prompt reproduc- who came across real seahorses cause of their common name, inspired tive activity. These efforts include adding new thought that they were the offspring by dragons of Chinese legend. pumps to create a stronger flow of water and of Poseidon’s hippocampi. The Romans Seahorses continue to play a role in specialized lighting to mimic the lunar cycle. later renamed the sea god Neptune and the decorative arts and storytelling in Aquarists have also added sargassum, a type used the same details in their versions modern times. They are emblematic of of seaweed typically found in wild seadragon of the stories. They also dried seahorses tropical oceans and signify qualities like habitats, to the Aquarium’s exhibits. The and used them as medicine. whimsy, exotic fantasy, and playfulness. seadragon exhibits are the only places at Hippocampi appeared in artwork and Images of seahorses still decorate the Aquarium where flash photography is crafts of other ancient cultures, from our walls, clothing, and jewelry, and prohibited because of the animals' sensitivity Bronze Age Minoans in what is now souvenirs of beach vacations. to changes in light. Greece, and Phoenicians who lived in

8 | Pacific Currents | Spring 2016 * Conservation * Exhibit Guide Both leafy and weedy seadragons are fully protected under Australia’s local, state, and Tropical Pacific Gallery federal legislation. In the past special licenses were required to collect or export them, but 01 01 in 2015 the Australian government stopped Syngnathoides biaculeatus issuing these licenses. This means that 02 aquariums displaying these animals must 02 now rely solely on propagation programs and dactyliophorous sharing seadragons among institutions to add their collections. Leafy and weedy seadragons 03 Blue-striped pipefish have been listed as Near Threatened on the excisus IUCN Red List since 2006. Like most coral reef Dragon sea moth 03 inhabitants, seadragons are at risk because of 04 Eurypegasus draconis habitat destruction due to human development, 04 pollution, and agricultural fertilizer run-off. An 05 Dwarf seahorse increase in water temperature as a result of Hippocampus zosterae global climate change may affect their survival if they are unable to adapt. 06 Seahorses face similar pressures. An ad- Phycodurus eques ditional threat to their populations is their use Conservation status: Near Threatened in traditional medicines and collection for the 05 live aquarium trade and as curios. Although 07 Longsnout seahorse 06 data is insufficient to measure the impact Hippocampus reidi their harvest for these purposes has on overall populations, millions of seahorses are collected 08 Pot-bellied seahorse each year and several countries have opted out Hippocampus abdominalis of international trade recommendations that could regulate their import and export and help 09 Razorfish protect wild populations. IUCN lists eleven strigatus 07 species of seahorses as Vulnerable, and one, Ribbon dragon the Knysna or cape seahorse native to South 10 08 Haliichthys taeniophorus Africa, as Endangered. Most seahorse species tracked by IUCN are listed as . 11 Yellow-banded pipefish Because of their small size, their ability to cam- Dunckerocampus pessuliferus ouflage, and their limited abundance, collecting data on seahorse populations is particularly 12 Tigertail seahorse challenging. Hippocampus comes 09 Harmful fishing practices like bottom trawl- Conservation status: Vulnerable ing, which captures seahorses and seadragons 10 and many other animals as bycatch, are 13 Weedy seadragon particularly damaging to seafloor habitats and Phyllopteryx taeniolatus marine life. Conservation status: Near Threatened Conservation groups like Project Seahorse are working with communities in areas where Southern California/Baja Gallery these animals are collected for use in the 11 traditional medicine or curio trade. They are advocating for laws regulating the seahorse 14 Pacific seahorse trade and training community members to Hippocampus ingens 12 become conservationists and preserve their Conservation status: Vulnerable local marine ecosystems. To help conserve Pacific trumpetfish syngnathid populations in the wild, construc- 15 Aulostomus chinensis tion and development in coastal areas should be limited; fisheries should be well regulated, 13 especially in shallow-water habitats where Photographs: All Aquarium of the seahorses and seadragons live; and pollutants Pacific except 1) John E. Randall; 3) Andreas März should be prevented from entering the ocean 14 through run-off. Preserving and protecting the ecosystems that are home to the beautiful and intriguing syngnathid family of marine animals will improve their populations and those of other animals in their habitats and ensure they continue to captivate generations to come. 15

Spring 2016 | Pacific Currents | 9 Aquarium Programs & Events

The Aquarium of the Pacific offers programs and events for all ages and interests. With exclusive events for our members, cultural festivals, and a guest speaker series, there is something for everyone. AQuarium events member events Special Events Special Events

Please join us for these select events just for our The Aquarium of the Pacific hosts a variety of Long Beach Chorale: music in the members and donors. performances, fundraisers, lunches, and other key of sea special events throughout the year. Check our Friday, June 10 | 7:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m. Member Preview Night website for more details and additional events. The Long Beach Chorale returns to the Sunday, May 22 | 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Aquarium for a performance in the Great Hall. Did you know that winged horses really do Shark Nights Music in the Key of Sea will feature move- Fridays, April 22–June 10 | 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. exist and that some horses can change color? ments from the Aquarium-commissioned They do in the ocean, and you can be among Get up close with the ocean’s ultimate preda- Symphony of Jellies, with the Honda Blue the first to see them in our new exhibition, tors for free during Shark Lagoon Nights. Cavern exhibit as a backdrop and the Great Horses and Dragons, featuring approximately Touch bonnethead and bamboo sharks, and Hall providing cathedral-like acoustics. Doors one dozen species of seahorses and their rela- see large sharks like the sand tiger and zebra will open at 7:00 p.m., giving the audience tives. Plus, you will also get a sneak peek at our sharks at the Shark Lagoon exhibit on select a chance to explore the Aquarium’s exhibits new Vanishing Animals gallery where you can Friday evenings. Drinks and snacks will be before the concert begins at 7:30 p.m. discover endangered species and learn about available for purchase. Live music will be Refreshments will be available for purchase. featured during select Shark Lagoon Nights their challenges and success stories! Food and Cost | $25 for member adults, $15 for member drinks will be available for purchase. Cost | Free for everyone. students with ID and member children ages Cost | Free for members. Member guests receive Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 3 to 11; $30 for non-member adults, $18 for 20% off general admission. non-member students/children. RSVP | (562) 437-3474 by May 19 Mother’s Day Brunch Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 Sunday, May 8 | 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Member Summer Aqua-lympics Party Join the Aquarium for its annual Mother’s Blue Whale Gala Friday, August 19 | 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Day Brunch. Attendees can delight in an Saturday, June 11 | 6:30 p.m.–11:00 p.m. With Rio hosting the 2016 summer games, elegant brunch and explore the wonders of Save the date for the Aquarium’s Blue Whale we have sports fever here at the Aquarium! the Pacific Ocean. Gala, when Dr. Holly A. Bamford and Dr. Steven S. Koblik will be recognized with the Family members will get a chance to dress Cost | $49 per member, $15 per member child (ages Aquarium’s Ocean Conservation Award. up in their favorite country’s colors and learn 3 to 11); $59 per non-member, $25 per non- This elegant black-tie event co-chaired by about our speediest and strongest animals member child. Includes general admission. Aquarium Trustees Trini Jimenez and Andy at this educational event. Plus, there will be Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 fun for everyone with extra-special games, Perez will include an outdoor cocktail reception hands-on activities, and a craft for the kids. World Ocean Day overlooking Rainbow Harbor and a gourmet Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Wednesday, June 8 | 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. dinner in the Great Hall of the Pacific, followed by dessert and dancing under the stars. The Aquarium will celebrate World Ocean Cost | Free for members. Member guests receive Proceeds support the Aquarium’s education, Day with an array of activities. Aquarium visi- 20% off general admission. ocean conservation, and animal care programs. RSVP | (562) 437-3474 by August 16 tors can learn about climate change, ocean pollution, and other ocean issues by viewing Cost | $500 per person Adult Member Trivia Night films and shows and exploring exhibits. This RSVP | Jillian Koehring, [email protected] or Thursday, September 15 | 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. year the Aquarium is raising awareness about (562) 951-1613 Nothing will be trivial about Adult Member the vaquita, the world's most endangered Trivia Night at the Aquarium! Adult members marine mammal. All of this is in celebration of Summer Discounted Late Nights Sundays, June 12–Sep. 4 | 5:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. are invited to spend an evening getting their the ocean, which covers 70 percent of Earth’s geek on by answering questions about our surface and remains 90 percent unexplored. On summer Sundays, admission will be just $14.95 for adults and children after 5:00 p.m., adorable animals, finned friends, the big blue Cost | Free for members; members' guests receive and the Aquarium will remain open until 8:00 ocean, and other Aquarium-related topics. Join 20% off regular admission. p.m. The Aquarium's short films will be shown in on the fun or take a break to enjoy a drink Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 from the cash bar while exploring the galleries. in the Ocean Theater throughout the evening. Please note: Lorikeet Forest closes at 4:30 p.m. Cost | Free for members ages 21+ only. Member guests receive 20% off general admission. Cost | Free for members; $14.95 for guests. RSVP | (562) 437-3474 by September 12 Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0

10 | Pacific Currents | Spring 2016 Aquarium Programs & Events

Special Events

Night Dive summer series June 17, July 14 & Aug. 26 | 7:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m. Due to popular demand, Night Dive will expand into a series of events. As nights heat up, join us for a special summer series. At these events for adults ages 18 and up, enjoy live bands and DJs, check out food trucks in the front plaza, and see works of art by local artists. Cost | Free for members; $14.95 for guests. Visit the new Horses and Dragons exhibits during one of our special events. The Pacific trumpetfish is on view in the Gulf of California exhibit in the Southern California/Baja Gallery on the second floor. Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0

Father’s Day BBQ Special Events Special Events Sunday, June 19 | 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Celebrate Father’s Day with the entire family First Responders Day Aquarium 5K and Kids Fun Run at the Aquarium’s annual picnic. Enjoy lunch Sunday, September 11 | 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Saturday, October 8 | 7:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. and delight in the underwater sea life of the Police officers, sheriff's deputies, and fire- The Aquarium of the Pacific will be partnering Aquarium. Tickets go on sale May 9. fighters receive free admission on September once again with the Long Beach Marathon to Cost | $44 per member, $15 per member child (ages 11. Contact your union or association to host the annual one-mile Kids Fun Run and 3 to 11); $54 per non-member, $25 per non- purchase discounted tickets for friends and the event’s 5K Run/Walk, which will include member child. Includes admission. family before coming to the Aquarium. the Aquarium in the course. Sign up early as Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 both events are expected to fill up quickly. Cost | Free for police officers, sheriff's deputies, and The Kids Fun Run will start in age group firefighters with a current and valid service ID. waves from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. July 4th Late Night and BBQ Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 Monday, July 4 | 5:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m. Cost | Aquarium 5K: $35; Kids Fun Run: Free Celebrate Independence Day with a visit to farm to cocktail dinner Info | runlongbeach.com or (562) 427-4606 the Aquarium to dig into our annual BBQ at friday, september 22 | 6:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m., view the Queen Mary fireworks Enjoy a sustainable dinner with food and Photographers Night display, and enjoy special extended hours. cocktails inspired by a local farm! With stun- Sunday, October 9 | 5:30 p.m.–10:00 p.m. General admission after 5:00 p.m. is $14.95. ning harbor views on our rooftop Veranda, This is your chance to take the photos Tickets go on sale May 15. you’ll enjoy hand-crafted cocktails paired with you have always wanted at the Aquarium. Cost | BBQ: $49 per member, $15 per member child five delicious courses, all using local sustain- Professional and amateur photographers are (ages 3 to 11); $59 per non-member, $25 per able resources. This event is for ages 21 and invited to capture the Aquarium’s wildlife non-member child. Includes admission. up, only. Tickets go on sale July 1. during exclusive “photographers only” hours. Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 Meet vendors, test new equipment, attend Cost | $65 for members, $75 for non-members. workshops, and meet other wildlife photo Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 Voices on the Veranda enthusiasts. Tickets go on sale July 1. Wed., July 6–Aug. 31 | 7:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m. California Coastal Clean-Up Day Cost | $26.95 per member, $29.95 per non-member This summer concert series will feature both Sat., September 17 | 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 solo acts and bands performing jazz, rock, Help Aquarium staff members protect our and folk music on the Aquarium’s rooftop ocean and marine life by cleaning Alamitos Sea Fare Veranda, which overlooks Rainbow Harbor. Beach as part of the statewide Coastal Clean- Saturday, October 22 | 7:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Up Day. Gloves and bags will be provided. Save the date for the Aquarium’s thirteenth Cost | $15 for members, $20 for non-members. Look for the Aquarium booth to check in. No annual Sea Fare fundraiser. Sip and savor Does not include Aquarium admission. RSVP necessary. your way through the Aquarium galleries Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 with an open bar and tastes from over 25 Location | The Peninsula, where Ocean Boulevard local restaurants, bid on an array of items in meets Bayshore Street. beer dinner the live and silent auctions, and dance with Cost | Free thursdays, Aug. 25 & oct. 20 | 6:00 p.m.– Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 the fish. Proceeds will benefit the Aquarium’s 9:00 p.m. education, conservation, and animal care Work up an appetite visiting our 11,000 Seniors Day programs. Tickets go on sale July 1. animals and join us for dinner! Enjoy a blend Wednesday, October 5 | 8:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Cost | $125 per person of chef-inspired food, beautiful harbor views, The Aquarium will open its doors for free to INFO | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 and craft beer pairings at the Aquarium of people ages fifty and above. Special exhibits the Pacific. Dinner is a delicious meal with for seniors will include booth displays by the five courses, each with a different craft beer Aquarium’s volunteer services and education accompaniment. This event is for those ages staff, and more. 21 and up, only. Tickets go on sale June 1. Cost | FREE to visitors ages 50 and over with a valid Cost | $65 for members, $75 for non-members. photo ID. Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0

Spring 2016 | Pacific Currents | 11 Aquarium Programs & Events tick M ike B a r n e Sto M ac

August 18: Mike Bartick will share photos and stories of diving at night and photographing nocturnal marine life. October 18: Photographer Mac Stone will share his images of the Everglades. festivals festivals guest speakers

Urban Ocean Festival The Aquarium hosts guest lectures on a variety of Baja Splash Cultural Festival topics presented by experts from across the country. Sat. & Sun., Apr. 30–May 1 | 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Sat. & Sun., SEP. 24–25 | 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Presentations are held in the Ocean Theater. Explore and celebrate Southern California’s Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and coast during the Aquarium’s annual Urban Mexican Independence Day with live Melissa Neuman | Status of White and Ocean Festival. The event will include an art entertainment, crafts, educational programs, Pinto Abalone in Southern California exhibition, a fashion show and contest for de- ethnic cuisine and more. The diversity of Thursday, May 5 | 7:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m. signs using recycled materials, mural painting, Hispanic cultures will be highlighted through Overfishing and other impacts have caused poetry readings, and educational activities. song, dance, art, and cultural displays. white and pinto abalone populations in Cost | Free for members; member guests receive Mariachi music, Mexican folkloric and Aztec Southern California to fall to alarmingly low 20% off regular admission. dance troupes, interactive mural painting, levels. Melissa Neuman, fisheries abalone Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 Salvadoran dance, Guatemalan performances, recovery coordinator for the National Oceanic and other special programs are featured. and Atmospheric Administration, will discuss Pacific Islander Festival Cost | Free for members; member guests receive her work with these abalone populations and Sat. & Sun., June 4–5 | 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. 20% off regular admission. the potential for a monitoring program to Discover the rich and diverse cultures of Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 track wild abalone long-term and breeding the Pacific Islands through traditional craft programs to supplement populations. demonstrations, ethnic cuisine, educational Southeast Asia Day programs, storytelling, and music and dance Saturday, October 1 | 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Scott Maloni | Seawater performances. The Aquarium's annual Pacific The Aquarium will celebrate its annual Desalination: Fact vs. Fiction Islander Festival will celebrate various cul- Southeast Asia Day highlighting the beauty Wednesday, May 11 | 7:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m. tures, including Hawaiian, Fijian, Marshallese, and diversity of the cultures of Cambodia, Drought and climate change impacts have Chamoru, Tahitian, Samoan, Tokelau, Tongan, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, Laos, and California looking to the Pacific Ocean for a new and Maori. . Guests will enjoy live perfor- drinking water supply. Is seawater desalination a sustainable source of new water? Scott Cost | Free for members; member guests receive mances, including music, dance, and cultural Maloni will discuss the technical, environmen- 20% off regular admission. craft demonstrations. Ethnic cuisine will be tal, and economic issues surrounding seawater Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 available for purchase, and children will have the opportunity to partake in arts and crafts. desalination. Maloni is vice president of devel- Moompetam Native American opment for Poseidon Water and is responsible Cost | Free for members; member guests receive for managing development of the company’s Festival 20% off regular admission. Sat. & Sun., Sep. 17–18 | 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Huntington Beach Desalination Project. Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 In celebration of Native American malin pinsky | Does Climate Change cultures, the Aquarium will host its annual Scarium of the Pacific Put Ocean Life “in a Blender?” Moompetam Festival. This weekend celebra- Sat. & Sun., Oct. 15–16 | 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. tuesday, June 7 | 7:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m. tion will feature traditional cultural crafts, Discover the creatures lurking in the The oceans have absorbed 93 percent of all storytelling, educational programs, live depths at the Aquarium’s annual Scarium excess heat on earth, dramatically changing demonstrations, music, and dance celebrating of the Pacific—a spooktacular educational the physics, chemistry, and biology of the the indigenous California maritime cultures, Halloween event for the whole family. Enjoy ocean. Malin Pinsky will discuss how climate including Tongva, Chumash, Acjachemen, special Halloween programs, including change reshuffles the marine life off our Costanoan, Luiseno, and Kumeyaay. the annual children’s costume contest, the coasts, the implications for fisheries and Cost | Free for members; member guests receive creepy coloring contest, face painting, magic economies, and the innovative ways that 20% off regular admission. shows, underwater pumpkin carving, spooky human communities are adapting to these Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 storytelling, and kooky crafts. changes and trying to lessen their impacts. Cost | Free for members; member guests receive Pinsky is a Sloan Research Fellow in Ocean 20% off regular admission. Sciences and an assistant professor of ecol- Info | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 ogy and at Rutgers University. 12 | Pacific Currents | Spring 2016 Aquarium Programs & Events

guest speakers

the future of food series Fridays, sept. 23, oct. 7 & 14 | 7:00 p.m.- 8:30 p.m. Russ Parsons, former food columnist for the Los Angeles Times, will host a series of food and wine pairing events with guest chefs on the Aquarium’s rooftop Veranda. Cost | Visit aquariumofpacific.org for details. Info | (562) 590-1300, ext. 0 July 19: Josefin Stiller will talk about discovering a third species of seadragon in 2015.

guest speakers guest speakers photographing nocturnal marine life, includ- ing sea jellies and other animals found at David Caron | Harmful Algal Josefin Stiller | Taming Dragons: night several miles offshore over the deeper Blooms: Too Much of a Good Thing Unexpected Insights into the Biology, portions of the Verde Island Passage in the Tuesday, June 14 | 7:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m. Behavior, and Diversity of Seadragons . Bartick is a field guide who con- Scientists have documented an increase in Tuesday, July 19 | 7:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m. ducts photo safaris, lectures, and seminars. the number and severity of toxic algal blooms Josefin Stiller will share new insights in the ocean in recent decades. Driven by a into seadragon biology gained from field Douglas McCauley | A Marine variety of factors, including coastal land use, observations in Australia and from novel Biologist’s Quest to Keep the Pacific Wild nutrient discharges, and climate change, genetic techniques in the lab. Stiller and her wednesday, sept. 14 | 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. harmful algal blooms (HABs) degrade coastal advisors serendipitously discovered the ruby Douglas McCauley, professor at the University fisheries and habitats, kill animals, and result seadragon in 2015. Learn how the team set of California, Santa Barbara, was the lead in millions of dollars of lost revenue due to out on an expedition to the remote parts of author on the paper in the journal Science that seafood contamination. David A. Caron, Australia's coast to find ruby seadragons. inspired the Aquarium’s Vanishing Animals a professor at the University of Southern Stiller is a Ph.D. candidate at Scripps exhibit. He will share stories of science and California, will discuss the growing problem Institution of Oceanography. adventure from his career as a marine biologist of HABs, their causes, and their mitigation and contrast views of ocean life in remote and prevention. Paul Isley | Tillandsia Air Plants: Low- places to more impacted parts of the ocean. Water Plants for the 21st Century He will discuss new conservation tools and Kim Steinhardt | The Sea Tuesday, July 26 | 7:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m. technologies to protect the ocean's wildness. Otter Survival Story The Tillandsia refers to a family of easy- Tuesday, June 21 | 7:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m. to-maintain plants that can grow without soil. Gail Wight | Swimming in the The relationship between sea otters and They vary in shape, color, and size, providing Age of Fishes: Art, Imagination, humans has been strained during much of the attractive, modern-looking additions to homes and the Unknowable last two centuries. With only 3,000 California and gardens. Their minimal need for moisture wednesday, october 12 | 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. sea otters remaining, this threatened species also makes them a drought-friendly choice. Paul Artist Gail Wight will discuss how topics in bi- faces new peril. Kim Steinhardt will discuss Isley, who will discuss these plants, in 1974 ology like species diversity, extinction, and the how law and politics can unintentionally established Rainforest Flora, Inc., a nursery forces of weather on habitat drive her studio compete with science and ocean stewardship. specializing in tillandsias and bromeliads. practice. She will share her current attempt to A former California State Administrative depict the Pacific Ocean and waves along the Law judge, Steinhardt serves on the board of Andrew Nosal | Local Legends: California coast. directors of the Long Marine Lab’s Seymour Movement Biology of the Leopard Discovery Center at the University of Shark off La Jolla, California mac stone | Journey Through the Everglades California, Santa Cruz. Tuesday, August 9 | 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. tuesday, october 18 | 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Every summer, hundreds of harmless leopard Frequently working in swamps and wetlands of joel von Eenennaam | sharks gather in shallow water off La Jolla the southeastern U.S., conservation photogra- California Caviar: The History of Shores Beach. These local legends have awed pher Mac Stone will share images and stories White Sturgeon Aquaculture swimmers and snorkelers for decades, but no from his book, Everglades: America's Wetland. Thursday, july 7 | 7:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m. one knew why they gathered at this particular Today, California’s white sturgeon aqua- spot. Join Dr. Andy Nosal, a marine biologist at COST | Free for members, Sponsors: culture industry produces 10 tons of caviar Scripps Institution of Oceanography, to learn teachers, seniors 62+, and 700 tons of meat annually. Joel von about the history of this location and its leopard and students with Eenennaam, research associate in the depart- sharks. Dr. Nosal is a postdoctoral researcher at valid I.D. and advanced ment of animal science at the University of Scripps Institution of Oceanography. reservations. $5/non- California, Davis, will detail the history of members. white sturgeon aquaculture, the reproduc- mike bartick | Into the Black INFO | (562) 590-3100, ext. 0 tive biology of this species, and hatchery Thursday, August 18 | 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. WEB | All lectures are streamed live on the Aquarium's techniques for wild stock enhancement and Diver and marine wildlife photographer website at aquariumofpacific.org/aquariumlive commercial aquaculture. Mike Bartick will discuss diving at night and Spring 2016 | Pacific Currents | 13 dr. allen and charlotte ginsburg ENTRANCE A redesigned front entrance will feature an expanded FRONT plaza ticketing area and a special The front plaza is a community gathering place that will host outdoor entrance for members. programs and art installations.

The Pacific Visions campaign is your campaign.

To contribute to the campaign, visit aquariumofpacific.org/apacificvisionsdonation. For additional information about Pacific Visions and how to donate, please contact development at (562) 951-1701 or [email protected]. 4

GLASS FAÇADE Individually shaped glass sheets measuring between four and eight square feet will create the dramatic curves of the biomorphic architecture.

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2nd Floor

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1 1st Floor

The future of our ocean is your future. Join us today—help the Aquarium of the Pacific shape, pursue, and enjoy a better future for our planet.

1 Members Services Center 4 honda Pacific Visions 5 Changing Exhibit Gallery A new concierge alcove will Theater The expanded Changing Exhibit provide service for valued This two-story theater will seat 300 Gallery will double the existing Aquarium members. guests and will be the centerpiece changing exhibit gallery space. The of the new expansion. Enveloped by new space will feature live animals, 2 art gallery a 32-foot-tall, 180-degree arc digital interactive multimedia displays, Visitors will enter the new wing projection wall and a 30-foot-diam- and projected wall murals to foster though the Pacific Visions Art Gallery, eter floor projection disc, visitors deeper engagement with the narra- featuring changing installations to will be immersed in a virtual ocean tive and themes of each temporary establish an emotional connection to environment. With cutting-edge, exhibit. These exhibits will be the ocean and marine life. high-definition, and interactive rotated periodically to reflect current technology, visitors will be able to scientific issues and discoveries and 3 Orientation Gallery experience Pacific Visions with all of will be developed in conjunction This dynamic gallery will create a their senses and will inform the story with the theater experiences. knowledge base and educational by providing real-time feedback. context for guests, setting the stage for the Honda Pacific Visions Theater experience that awaits them. Aquarium Tours & Encounters These programs are opportunities to see the Aquarium in a different light and get up close to the animals.

Behind-The-Scenes Tours See what it takes to maintain a world-class aquarium, from water filtration to animal care and feeding. Venture to the top of our larg- est exhibit and feed the fish! COST: $15 per member, $19 per non-member AGES: Children must be age seven or older.

Animal Encounters Experience the ultimate behind-the-scenes tour. Animal encounters Whale offer a chance to feed and interact with a shark, sea otter, seal, or sea lion. Penguin encounters will be on hiatus April 2 to July 9. For Watching available dates and times, visit aquariumofpacific.org or call (562) Cruises 590-3100, ext. 0. Age restrictions apply. COST: $99 per member, $109 per non-member (Aquarium blue WHALE WATCHING TRIPS Summer Season admission included) Join experts from the Aquarium for an ocean voyage in search of *Pre-registration required at least 24 hours in advance. the largest animal on the planet—the blue whale. Embark on an adventure to see these magnificent but endangered marine mam- Dive Immersion mals, and learn what you can do to help. Cruisers will also have Certified SCUBA divers can dive in our warm 350,000-gallon the opportunity to spot dolphins, seals, sea lions, and other marine Tropical Reef Habitat with more than 1,000 animals. animals. Read about recent sightings on the Aquarium’s whale watch blog (aquariumofpacific.org/blogs/category/whale_watch- WHEN: 3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. daily with reservation. ing) and Twitter feed (@OceanWatchLB). AGES: 15 and up. Ages 15 to 17 require a supervising adult to also sign up for the dive. COST: Members: $45 per adult, $35 per senior (ages 62+), $25 COST: $279 per member, $299 per non-member per child (ages 3-11). Non-members (includes Aquarium admission): $59.95 per adult, $56.95 per senior, $42.95 per child AGES: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. LENGTH: 3 to 3.5 hours RSVP: (562) 590-3100, ext. 0

16 | Pacific Currents | Spring 2016 Educational Opportunities

Teen Family Programs Overnight at the Aquarium Teens ages thirteen to fifteen can spend the night at the Aquarium Public programs at the Aquarium give children in the first-ever Teen Overnight. Enjoy a night sleeping with the of all ages the chance to participate in fun fishes in this teens-only event. classes with an Aquarium educator. Every class

brings another opportunity for learning more n Ri ggs Robi Start the night with a pizza party before becoming an ocean about the ocean, discovering new things about explorer to discover the mysteries of the deep sea. This overnight the Aquarium, and exploring marine life. camp program includes Aquarium exploration, hands-on activities, a pizza party, light snack, cereal breakfast, and a souvenir T-shirt. WHEN: Wed. & Thu., June 29-30 | 5:00 p.m.-7:30 a.m. Job Shadow CLASS COST: $80 per member, $90 per non-member Four rotating themed programs. AGES: 13 to 15 When: First Saturday and third Sunday of every month | 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Ages: 13 to 17 years old cost: $35 per member, $39 per non-member (Aquarium admis- Summer Day Camps sion not included) at the Aquarium Junior Biologist Dive into fun this summer! With programs for ages 3 to 15, we Six rotating themed programs. have a perfect camp experience for your child. Our camps feature When: Second Saturday of every month | 9:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. exciting animal interactions, tours, crafts, games, and experi- Ages: 7 to 12 years old ments. For dates and more information, visit aquariumofpacific. cost: $25.00 per member, $29.00 per non-member (Aquarium org/camps or call (562) 590-3100. admission not included)

Fish Fry Camp Aquatots ages: 3 to 4 with parent Six rotating themed programs. Cost: $85 per member pair $110 per non-member pair When: Third Saturday of every month | 10:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m. Ages: 2- and 3-year-olds with an adult Sea Squirt Camp cost: $36.00 for Aquarium member pairs; $15.00 per additional ages: 5 to 6 guest. Non-members: $49.00 per adult/child pair; $20.00 Cost: $90 per member child per additional guest (Aquarium admission included). $115 per non-member child Saturday Family Fun Ocean Adventure Day Camp Four rotating themed programs. ages: 7 to 9 When: Fourth Saturday of every month | 10:00–11:30 a.m. cost: $270 per member child Ages: 4- to 6-year-olds with an adult $300 per non-member child cost: $36.00 for Aquarium member pairs; $15.00 per additional guest. Non-members: $49.00 per adult/child pair; $20.00 Junior Biologist Day Camp per additional guest (Aquarium admission included). ages: 10 to 12 Cost: $270 per member $300 per non-member child Toddler and preschool programs supported by: Summer Teen Overnight ages: 13 to 15 cost: $80 per member $90 per non-member ScholarShare and the Aquarium are partnering to inspire our youngest explorers to pursue a lifetime of discovery and learning.

Pre-registration and pre-payment required on all programs unless noted. All prices subject to change. Spring 2016 | Pacific Currents | 17 KIDS CORNER Seahorse Craft: Two Ways Seahorses come in so many different colors and patterns. Create your own colorful seahorse using one of the methods described in the directions below.

Shaving Cream SeaHorse What You Need: Seahorse ❏❏Shaving ❏❏Cookie sheet Mosaic cream ❏❏Scissors ❏❏Food coloring ❏❏Spatula ❏❏Spoon What you need: ❏❏Scissors ❏ Steps: ❏Glue 1. Cut out the seahorse stencil ❏❏Items for provided. decoration 2. Fill the cookie sheet with a level layer of shaving cream. Use the Steps: spatula to smooth it out. 1. Explore your house for 3. Add a few drops of food coloring as many fun decorative on top of the shaving cream. Pick objects as you can whatever colors you like! Use the find. Gather buttons, spoon to spread the dye. You can toothpicks, colorful make swirls, lines, or just mix it paper, beads, yarn, all up. You are setting up a kind of and any other fun art printing press. When you lay your supplies to decorate seahorse onto the cookie sheet, your seahorse. it should pick up the colors and 2. Cut out the seahorse patterns that you make on the stencil provided. shaving cream. 3. Glue your craft items 4. This step is tricky, and you may onto the seahorse to need help from an adult. Press the create fun designs. seahorse cutout gently onto the Make sure your craft shaving cream. Peel it back and let it supplies don’t go dry for a few minutes. After it dries over the edge of the a bit, use the spatula to remove the seahorse cutout. extra shaving cream. Ribbon dragon Haliichthys taeniophorus

Tropical Pacific Gallery

Dwarf Seahorse Hippocampus zosterae

Tropical Pacific Gallery

American Alligator Alligator mississippiensis

Vanishing Animals Ribbon dragon Haliichthys taeniophorus @michellefryer

Physical Characteristics Ribbon dragons have a straight body with several frilly appendages. They range in color from greenish-yellow to brownish-red and grow up to a foot long. Fun Fact Diet The ribbon They use their prehensile tails to dragon is similar attach to seagrass while searching to the Rainbow for prey, consisting mostly of Serpent depicted planktonic crustaceans. in ancient Habitat Aboriginal They live in the shallow tropical seas Australian of Australia and Indonesia. drawings that date back to 6,000 years ago. @myoopsibaby

Dwarf Seahorse Hippocampus zosterae

Physical Characteristics One of the smallest seahorse species, dwarf seahorses grow up to 2 inches in length. They are usually white or tan in color, but can range from green to nearly black. Fun Fact Diet The 2009 This seahorse feeds on tiny shrimp Guinness and other small animals floating in Book of World its proximity. Records named this species Habitat the slowest- Dwarf seahorses are found in swimming fish. shallow seagrass beds in the western Atlantic, including Bermuda, @yogabbalabba southern Florida, the Bahamas, and the Gulf of Mexico.

American Alligator Alligator mississippiensis

Physical Characteristics This reptile has a massive tail almost half its body length. Females can grow to 8.2 feet long, and the average size for a male is 11.2 feet. Diet Fun Fact These alligators hunt turtles, fish, Juvenile birds, frogs, and mammals that American come to the water’s edge. alligators grow Photos #AquariumMember about a foot a Habitat year until they The American alligator is found in reach maturity. freshwater rivers, swamps, and lakes in the southeastern U.S. For a chance to be featured, tag your public photos with #AquariumMember on Instagram, or email your favorite photos to [email protected]. Aquarium News s avi a n d r D a ss C n Br e n t Tr a f to Aquarium Garden New Exhibits Planned Provides Monarch for Harbor Terrace Butterfly Habitat

new permanent moon jelly touch lab will be embers of the Aquarium’s horticulture opening this summer on the Aquarium's Harbor volunteer team began planting milkweed in the A Terrace. Visitors can gently touch these gelatinous ocean M Watershed garden and outside the back fence in 2014 animals and learn about their diet and life cycle. While all sea jellies to provide food and habitat for monarch butterflies. Now have stinging cells, the moon jelly's are too weak to penetrate monarchs are visible in the garden almost year ‘round, and human skin. chrysalises can be found under the benches and in the vines on the fence. Monarch butterflies make a mass migration up to 3,000 miles in distance from Canada or the northern United States to Mudskippers can live both underwater California and Mexico each winter. Upon arrival, the butterflies lay eggs on milkweed plants, which the larvae eat once they and on land. hatch. Next they become caterpillars that create a protective chrysalis around themselves. After metamorphosis, they emerge as adult butterflies in summer. Monarch butterfly populations have declined for the past Also to be located on Harbor Terrace, an exhibit housing mud- several years because of habitat loss. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife skippers and archerfish will allow visitors to get an up-close view Service began review of a legal petition submitted in August of these unique fish. Mudskippers have adapted to an amphibious 2014 requesting Endangered Species Act protection for mon- lifestyle and can live both underwater and on land. Native to archs. Individuals can help support butterflies on their journey Indonesia, Africa, and the Indian Ocean, mudskippers get their by planting milkweed and other butterfly-friendly plants in their name from their ability to hop and climb using their pectoral fins. home gardens. Archerfish have the ability to spit a jet of water above the surface Look for monarch butterflies at the Aquarium while you visit as a method of hunting insects and other prey. They typically are this summer. If you find a butterfly, caterpillar, or chrysalis, found in and estuaries from India to the Philippines, take a photo and share it with us. You can post it to Instagram Australia, and Polynesia. with the hashtag #AquariumMember or send it via email to [email protected].

Spring 2016 | Pacific Currents | 21 Aquarium News Aquarium Partners with Conservation International for Pacific Rising

he Aquarium has formed an official partnership with Conservation International to provide the lead T role in public education and outreach for the Pacific Rising project. The mission of Pacific Rising is to ready Pacific Island nations to adapt and thrive—economically, environmen- tally, and culturally—in the face of climate change for many generations to come. Pacific Rising, announced by Conservation International in December 2015, is intended to function much like the Marshall Plan that helped recover European economies after World War II. It would help develop technology, foster enterprise, and preserve culture to stop a refugee crisis and save the lives and culture of people living on low-lying Pacific islands, including Kiribati, Maldives, , Tokelau, and Tuvalu. According to Conservation International, few global events in the foreseeable future will require greater moral or collective action than protecting Pacific Island societies from the substan- tial disruption they face from climate change and sea level rise. These non-industrialized nations had little to do with the climate crisis, yet they will be among the first to bear the costs. The Aquarium will provide educational programming to its guests to draw awareness to this crisis facing Pacific Islanders. Initially these efforts will include a video about this topic shown on the flatscreens located throughout the Aquarium, program- Instrumentalists ming at the annual Pacific Islander Festival on June 4 and 5, Translated Fish information on the Aquarium’s website, and information provided Movements to visitors on the Aquarium floor by educational interpreters. Into Music

n February 21 the Aquarium hosted O young music students and music education team WE ARE LIKE MUSIC for an event called Ocean’s Orchestra, which featured musical performances created using the movements of fish. Ocean’s Orchestra was performed live be- fore an audience as the inhabitants of the Aquarium’s Honda Blue Cavern exhibit swam past musical bar lines placed on the nearly three-story-tall exhibit window. A group of twenty-eight students playing stringed instruments translated the move- ments of the fish into music. Then, the audience members had the opportunity to visit other exhibits throughout the Aquarium and hear small groups of musicians interpreting the movements of marine life. Mother's DayBrunch The Aquarium regularly hosts performing artists and visual Join us for a memorable art exhibitions to showcase the use of the ocean as artistic Mother’s Day at the inspiration and to help visitors make an emotional connection Aquarium of the Pacific. Enjoy a delicious alfresco Sunday, May 8 • 10:30am - 1:30pm to ocean and environmental issues. For information about per- brunch, see more than 11,000 forming arts events at the Aquarium, visit aquariumofpacific. animals, and explore the Pricing: org/events and click on the Arts and Music categories. wonders of the ocean. All Includes Aquarium admission day Aquarium admission is general Public: Members: included. Adults: $59 (12+) Adults: $49 Child: $25 (3-11) Child: $15 (3-11)

aquariumofpacific.org 562.590.3100 100 AQUARIUM WAY, LONG BEACH, CA 90802

22 | Pacific Currents | Spring 2016 Aquarium News

Aquarium Hosts First Citizen Science Symposium

he Aquarium, with support from its marine conservation research institute, hosted its T first Citizen Science Symposium on February 20. Attendees included volunteers currently participating in citizen science programs, students, educators, and members of the public with an interest in becoming a citizen scientist. The symposium gave participants opportunities to make connec- tions, share their knowledge and information with others, and learn from experts and fellow citizen scientists. Citizen science programs allow the public to participate in the scientific process and collect data contributing to current research and monitoring. The symposium included panel discussions, a meet-and- greet poster reception, and a keynote presentation by Dr. Caren Cooper, assistant director of the Biodiversity Research Lab at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. Citizen science programs at the Aquarium include the San Sanden Totten, KPCC science reporter, moderated a panel on community Gabriel River Sea Turtle Monitoring Program, Focal Trees, engagement,which featured Beth Pratt, California director, National Wildlife which gathers data on types of trees and their environmental Federation; Cassandra Davis, Sea Turtle Monitoring Program & education volunteer impact, and HABWatch, which monitors harmful algal blooms coordinator, Aquarium of the Pacific; Susan von Thun, senior research technician and social media associate, Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute; and Dirk (HABs). To get involved with these programs, send an email to Burcham, WIES-Catalina Conservation Divers. Jenny Lentz at [email protected].

Seahorse dads give birth to their babies.

BBQ Father's DayBBQ July 4th and LateNight Treat your dad to a memorable Join us for a July 4th evening Father’s Day at the Aquarium. BBQ! Experience the ambiance of The celebration includes all-day the Aquarium, enjoy some fresh- lAte Night: 5pM-10pM MONDAY, JulY 4 BBQ: 6pM-8pM admission, a delicious meal, Sunday, June 19 • 11:30am - 1:30pm grilled BBQ, and view the Queen Mary fireworks this Indepen- and crafts for the kids. Space dence Day. Be sure to check out is limited, so reserve your spot Pricing: our newest exhibits Horses and BBQ today and take advantage of Includes Aquarium admission Includes Aquarium admission Dragons and Vanishing Animals. General Public: Members: this great value. general Public: Members: Reserve your spot for this event Adults: $54 (12+) Adults: $44 Adults: $59 Adults: $49 today as space is limited. Child: $25 (3-11) Child: $15 (3-11) Child 3-11: $25 Child 3-11: $15

. . aquariumofpacific.org 562 590 3100 100 AQUARIUM WAY, LONG BEACH, CA 90802 aquariumofpacific.org 562.590.3100 100 AQUARIUM WAY, LONG BEACH, CA 90802

Spring 2016 | Pacific Currents | 23 Fundraising

Fundraising Highlights The Aquarium of the Pacific relies on individuals, corporations, foundations, and government partners to support its mission and vision with contributions to the operating budget and a diverse range of projects.

■■ Johnny Carson Foundation Supports Education ■■ Windsong Trust Funds Ocean Science Education A longtime partner, the Johnny Carson Foundation recently A partner of the Aquarium for the past five years, Windsong Trust renewed their support with a gift of $25,000 for the Aquarium’s recently provided a $100,000 grant to the Aquarium’s Ocean Ocean Science Education Program. This gift will aid the Aquarium Science Education Program. With this support, the Aquarium’s in giving local students the opportunity to experience the thrill education department will continue to provide innovative science of scientific discovery through hands-on interactions with live programming, create opportunities for exploration and discovery animals and habitats at the Aquarium. The foundation has been with animals and technologies, and share a rich library of online supporting the Aquarium's education initiatives since 2004. and onsite resources to teachers. Kelly Brown from Los Amigos School in Palmdale, California, who recently participated in an ■■ Boeing Supports Hands-On Teacher Training Aquarium workshop, stated, “I think this is the first time I have A grant of $35,000 from the Boeing Company will support the ever been this passionate or excited about teaching science. I Aquarium’s in-depth training and professional development cannot wait for our first day of school. I already have six months experiences that serve approximately 150 teachers each year. of lessons sketched…I will be bringing the ocean to the desert this One of these opportunities, the Boeing Teacher Institute (BTI), year and in years to come.” provides thirty teachers with a five-day immersive workshop. Participating teachers spend two days at the Aquarium and three ■■ Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation Provides Scholarships days on Catalina Island at the University of Southern California’s The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) recently granted Wrigley Institute for Environmental Studies. Hands-on science $25,000 in support of the Aquarium’s scholarship fund. This gift experiences such as collecting plankton samples, building will provide Aquarium field trips and engaging marine science remotely operated vehicles, and touring aquaculture labs foster programs to 2,000 students from Title I (underserved) schools knowledge they can share with their students. “This program from throughout the greater Los Angeles area. One of the school is not only a life-changing event for myself, but also for my stu- groups from Camino Nuevo Charter Academy, whose visit was dents. It will allow me to expand my science program with more supported by LADF funding, visited on March 14. The class was hands-on projects and experiments that I know will increase my greeted by the Dodger Guy Character and Dodgers alumni, students’ love and passion for math and sciences,” Bridgeport Derrel Thomas. Elementary School teacher Brianna Brown remarked.

Pacific Visions Donors $15,000,000 LGA Family Foundation $25,000+ Norman and Suzanne Metcalfe Anonymous City of Long Beach Anonymous Douglas Otto and Freda Hinsche Steve and Marlene Young Anonymous Pacific Life Foundation Otto James C. and Jorene Hankla Jasen Lewis $5,000,000 Aquarium of the Pacific Staff Margie and Jon Masterson Cecile Fisher and Isaias $200,000+ Campaign Age of Aquariums Castellanos John and Michelle Molina and California Resources Corporation Dr. Charles and Margaret Durnin Keesal, Young & Logan The Original Fish Company Mario and Therese Molina Restaurant The Boeing Company Steven and Niko Mayer Carlotta Neri American Honda Motor Company Stiassni Family Foundation Schulzman-Neri Foundation Bert Levy William Ashburn and Sandra Smart-Ashburn Bill and Margie Gensemer $1,000,000+ Henry and Paulette Matson $150,000+ The Eli and Edythe Broad Carla N. Crespo James and Marilyn Simons $10,000+ Foundation Christopher N. Crespo Dr. Allen and Charlotte Ginsburg Betty White Ludden Marian F. Tang Tamara Achauer and Terrance Anonymous $2,000+ J. Sergio Bohon $100,000+ Hodel Anonymous Evalyn M. Bauer Foundation Andrew and Diana Cohen The Hearst Foundations Kathie Nirschl $500+ $500,000+ Johnny Carson Foundation Lyn and John Pohlmann Theresa Duncan Richard and Sandra Darling David and Margaret Mgrublian Chip Conley Bob and Jennifer Hagle Colby and Brenda Durnin Lorraine Ward King’s Seafood Company Begin Today For Tomorrow Kenneth T. and Eileen L. Norris Corinne and Rocky Laverty Jack and Barbara Irvin Thomas I. White Foundation Thomas Turney and Jill Boivin Jeanne B. Sleeper Alex and Margie Norman Renee R. Ralls Anonymous Russ and Avalon Hill Mark Suffredini Quiksilver Foundation The Thomas and Dorothy Leavey The Rose Hills Foundation Foundation $1,000+ Marti Brown Anthony Brown Warren R. Schulten Robyn B. Vivian $250,000+ $50,000+ SeaRiver Maritime, Inc. Dorothy J. Reiner Norman and Diane Delaterre Confidence Foundation The Kresge Foundation Northrop Grumman Corporation Ryan B. Autrey Jeffrey Spofford Don Knabe, Los Angeles County John Fielder and Donita Van Horik Robert and Debra Autrey Dennis C. and Suzanne M. Poulsen Supervisor, Fourth District Margie and Frank Newell $5,000+ John F. Penny and Christopher Tim and Karen Morey The Ralph M. Parsons Foundation Jerry R. and Margaret H. Schubel George W. Harben Kurimoto Esther S. M. Chui Chao Peter and Cathy Ridder

24 | Pacific Currents | Spring 2016 Fundraising

DONOR HIGHLIGHT 2015 Education Donors

■■ Renovated Aquarium on Wheels Unveiled ■■ We wish to extend a special thanks to the following The Aquarium unveiled its newly renovated outreach vehicle, the donors for their support of the Aquarium of the Pacific’s Aquarium on Wheels, at a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Elizabeth education initiatives in 2015. Hudson K-8 School in Long Beach on February 29. The signature sponsor for the new outreach vehicle, the Tesoro Foundation, $200,000+ $5,000+ provided funding for the renovation. After nearly fifteen years Tesoro Foundation ABS Foundation, Inc. on the road, the Aquarium on Wheels needed a replacement. Begin Today For Tomorrow Tesoro’s support enabled the Aquarium to purchase a new $100,000+ Carnival Foundation The Roddenberry Foundation City of Long Beach Stormwater/ engine and chassis, a new exterior wrap, and most importantly, Environmental Division new aquarium systems for interior animal exhibits. The engine $50,000+ The Foundation of the Family of C.M. and Edna P. Cotton upgrade also brings the truck in line with higher air quality BCM Foundation standards. Charles Brewer Fiscus Foundation Edison International The William Gillespie Foundation “At Tesoro, we are committed to creating cleaner, safer, Lakeside Foundation Bess J. Hodges Foundation well-educated communities where we operate,” said Ken Dami, The Robert and Lisa Margolis Family Brad Lemons Foundation Foundation NOAA Fisheries Tesoro’s director of government and public affairs for Southern The Miller Foundation California. “We are proud to support the Aquarium of the Pacific Nordstrom, Inc. The Reinhold Foundation $25,000+ and its efforts to provide extraordinary learning experiences Union Bank Foundation that promote ocean science and environmental literacy among The Boeing Company UPS Foundation schoolchildren, families, and the community throughout Southern Johnny Carson Foundation U.S. Bank California.” The Green Foundation Whitney Young Children's Foundation Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation The Aquarium on Wheels travels nearly 10,000 miles and The Rudolph J. & Daphne A. Munzer $2,500+ serves nearly 40,000 students and community members per Foundation Edwards Lifesciences Foundation year at schools, community events, and other public programs $10,000+ Kinder Morgan Foundation throughout the greater Los Angeles area. The Aquarium on Weiler Foundation Wheels contains tidepool exhibits that allow visitors to touch live BNSF Railway Company Capital Group Companies $1,000+ ocean animals while learning about marine life from an educator. Dwight Stuart Youth Fund Fuscoe Engineering, Inc. Bringing the Aquarium to the students via Aquarium on Wheels Employees Community Fund of Boeing California One World One Ocean Foundation is often the first opportunity many children have to touch marine Winnick Family Foundation animals. The experience provides opportunities to learn about Fluor Foundation Kenneth T. and Eileen L. Norris marine science in a whole new way and helps shape the next Foundation generation of ocean stewards. Pacific Life Foundation Premier Steinmetz Foundation Ueberroth Family Foundation Union Pacific Railroad

Spring 2016 | Pacific Currents | 25 AQuarium Accolades The Aquarium presents the Heritage Award in recognition of individuals and organizations and their service to the community.

executive officers

Dr. Jerry R. Schubel president and ceo Mr. Anthony T. Brown VP of Finance/CFO Ms. Cecile Fisher VP of Marketing/Corporate Secretary

board of directors

Mr. Stephen I. Chazen, vice chairman Arts and Services for Disabled, Inc. Dr. Minnie Douglas | Heritage Award Mr. David Cohen | Glenn McIntyre Heritage Award The Aquarium presented the Heritage Award Mr. Craig Cooning The Aquarium presented the Glenn McIntyre to Dr. Minnie Douglas at the African-American Ms. Kathleen Eckert Heritage Award to Arts and Services for Festival in February. Dr. Douglas was honored Mrs. Charlotte Ginsburg Disabled, Inc. (ASD) at the Festival of Human for her work in the fields of nursing and educa- Ms. Jennifer Hagle, Abilities in January. Based in Long Beach, ASD tion, her leadership, and her extensive service board secretary has a mission to provide lifelong learning, com- to the community in Long Beach. A native of Mr. James C. Hankla munity service, and vocational opportunities Texas and longtime resident of Long Beach, Dr. Mr. Phil Harrington through the creative arts for people with dis- Douglas is professor emeritus of Long Beach Mr. Russell T. Hill abilities of all ages in an environment of warmth, City College, where she served as Associate Mr. Samuel King encouragement, and inclusion. ASD provides Degree Nursing Program instructor and director, services for adults, children, and the general affirmative action coordinator, and coordinator Ms. Corinne Laverty public through several tailored programs. ASD’s of health services. Mr. Bert Levy day programs for adults provide studio settings Dr. Douglas has served on the board of Mr. Steven Mayer and facilitation for adults in such creative arts directors for many local organizations, includ- Mr. John Molina, as music, drawing and painting, mural painting, ing the Long Beach Department of Health and chairman video production, photography, fiber arts, and Human Services; Long Beach Human Relations Dr. J. Mario Molina printmaking. These programs are offered at four Commission; St. Mary Medical Center; and Mr. Stephan Morikawa campuses in Long Beach and the South Bay. The Arts Council for Long Beach; among others. Mr. Stephen Olson She currently serves on the boards of The Pearl performing and visual art creations of ASD’s Mr. Douglas Otto students are shared with the public through Foundation, Inc.; California Conference for Mr. Mark Paullin exhibitions at ASD’s galleries, Artbeat Radio, Equality and Justice; International City Theater and the Go! Store, which is run by students. The Executive Committee; Long Beach City College Dr. Jerry R. Schubel award was accepted by Arts and Services for Foundation; Leadership Long Beach; St. Mary Mr. Kurt Schulzman Disabled representatives Megan Hanks, Monica Medical Center Foundation; Ronald McDonald Mr. Michael Sondermann directors of board uarium Fernandez, and Linda Wallace. House - Heart of the House Committee; and Mr. Arlo Sorensen Long Beach Unified School District’s Advanced q Pictured: Megan Hanks, director of development, ASD; Kathie Mr. Thomas Turney Nirschl, vice president of human resources, Aquarium of the Placement Academy Advisory Committee. Dr. Mr. Stephen Young a Pacific; Monica Fernandez, director of communications and Douglas is the recipient of numerous awards and community engagement, ASD; and Linda Wallace, board (as of 4/1/16) chair, ASD. honors, including the National Conference for Community and Justice’s Humanitarian Award. www.aquariumofpacific.org Pictured: Dr. Minnie Douglas, Heritage Award honoree, and Anthony Brown, chief financial officer and interim vice president of development, Aquarium of the Pacific.

26 | Pacific Currents | Spring 2016 Focus on Sustainability

Preventing

Extinctions e n mu ss Er ic Ra ss Fishers work with Project Piaba in the Amazon to sustainably collect fish for the hobbyist aquarium industry. Success stories in which endangered species were brought back from the brink can inform conservation decisions.

hat can we do to help and Least Concern. These categories species like cardinal tetras, while maintain- endangered species? Through are used internationally to describe the ing jobs for and educating subsistence W the Aquarium’s Vanishing status of plant and animal species. Visit fishers. Project Piaba is represented in the Animals exhibit this summer, iucnredlist.org to learn more. Vanishing Animals exhibit by cardinal tetras visitors will be able to learn about the Endangered species lists also help and discus fish as examples of species that potential for extinctions in the ocean and guide the regulations that protect these are now collected sustainably. what we can do to avoid them. Success species and the agencies that monitor Another example on view in Vanishing stories in which endangered species their recovery. In the United States, laws Animals is American alligators, which were rebounded from near extinction can and policy governing plans to protect hunted for leather until populations were provide examples of how our actions can endangered species are dictated by severely depleted. In 1967 this species was make a difference. It is possible to mitigate the Endangered Species Act passed by listed as endangered by the U.S. govern- or undo the impacts of our activities on the Congress in 1973. Currently 688 animals ment. The introduction of trade regulations, plants and animals we share our planet with. and 897 plants are listed as threatened or monitoring, reintroduction to the wild, and Raising public awareness about endan- endangered in the U.S. The U.S. Fish and breeding on alligator farms have allowed gered species is an important step. The Wildlife Service administers recovery plans the species to fully recover. International Union for Conservation of for endangered species. Human activity has had a dramatic im- Nature has compiled The IUCN Red List of Some endangered and threatened pact on global biodiversity. To help prevent Threatened Species™ since 1964 to guide species have historically served as a source plant and animal extinctions, it is important conservation efforts in support of plant of income for people who harvest plants for people to be educated about the status and animal biodiversity. The IUCN Red or animals for food or other trade. Project of endangered species, particularly in their List helps people understand the threats Piaba is an example of an organization local area where they are likely to have the endangered plants and animals face. working to improve sustainability of the most impact. Learn about the endangered Over 76,000 species have been analyzed Amazon fishery to supply home aquariums, species in your region and the threats they and classified into the categories Extinct, which is a significant source of income face to see how your actions might impact Extinct in the Wild, Critically Endangered, for the local community. Their programs these species. Endangered, Vulnerable, Near Threatened, help to protect vulnerable ecosystems and

Currently 688 animals and 897 plants are listed as threatened or endangered in the United States.

Spring 2016 | Pacific Currents | 27 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID 100 Aquarium Way Long Beach, CA Long Beach, CA 90802 Permit No. 233

©2013©2016 Aquarium of the Pacific All Rights Reserved Free for members | $3.95 for non-members  C   member magazine of the aquarium paci fi c member magazine P

SAVE THE DATE SATURDAY, JUNE 11, 2016 6:30 P.M. Join us as we honor Elegant Cocktails Hors d’oeuvre Reception Dr. Holly A. Bamford & Gourmet Dinner Dr. Steven S. Koblik Inspirational Conversations Delectable Desserts with the prestigious Ocean Conservation Award Dancing under the Stars

$500 per seat

For more information and sponsorship opportunities, please contact Jillian Koehring at (562) 951-1613 or [email protected]

All proceeds support the Aquarium’s education, ocean conservation, and animal care programs.