The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest and most popular aquariums in the world, located in Atlanta, Georgia. With over 10 million gallons of water and thousands of aquatic animals from around the globe, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in marine life. Among the many species of fish, mammals, and other creatures on display, the Georgia Aquarium is home to a variety of sharks. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of sharks you can see at the Georgia Aquarium and what makes them so fascinating.
The Shark Species at the Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is home to several species of sharks, including the whale shark, the largest fish in the world, and the bonnethead shark, a species of hammerhead shark. Other species of sharks on display include the sand tiger shark, the nurse shark, and the zebra shark. Each of these species has its own unique characteristics and habits, making them a fascinating sight to behold.
The Whale Shark
The whale shark is the largest fish in the world, growing up to 40 feet in length and weighing up to 20 tons. Despite its massive size, the whale shark is a gentle giant, feeding on plankton and small fish. The Georgia Aquarium is one of the few places in the world where you can see a whale shark up close, and it’s an experience not to be missed.
Facts About Whale Sharks
- Whale sharks can live up to 100 years in the wild.
- They are found in warm and tropical waters around the world.
- Whale sharks are filter feeders, using their large mouths to suck in water and filter out small fish and plankton.
- They are considered harmless to humans and are often sought out by divers and snorkelers.
The Bonnethead Shark
The bonnethead shark is a species of hammerhead shark that is found in warm and tropical waters around the world. It’s a relatively small species of shark, growing up to 6 feet in length, and is known for its distinctive head shape and small eyes. The Georgia Aquarium is home to a large group of bonnethead sharks, which can be seen swimming together in their exhibit.
Facts About Bonnethead Sharks
- Bonnethead sharks are found in warm and tropical waters around the world.
- They are a relatively small species of shark, growing up to 6 feet in length.
- Bonnethead sharks are known for their distinctive head shape and small eyes.
- They are carnivores, feeding on small fish and crustaceans.
The Shark Habitats at the Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is home to several shark exhibits, each designed to mimic the natural habitats of the sharks on display. The exhibits are designed to provide a naturalistic environment for the sharks, with features such as coral reefs, rocky outcroppings, and sandy bottoms. The exhibits are also designed to provide a safe and secure environment for the sharks, with features such as glass walls and acrylic tunnels. (See Also: How Long Does the Baltimore Aquarium Take? A Day To Remember)
The Ocean Voyager Exhibit
The Ocean Voyager exhibit is one of the largest exhibits at the Georgia Aquarium, featuring a 6.3 million gallon tank filled with a variety of marine animals, including sharks, rays, and fish. The exhibit is designed to mimic the natural habitat of the sharks, with features such as coral reefs and rocky outcroppings. Visitors can walk through the exhibit and get up close and personal with the sharks, or take a ride on the aquarium’s glass-bottomed boat.
Facts About the Ocean Voyager Exhibit
- The Ocean Voyager exhibit is one of the largest exhibits at the Georgia Aquarium.
- The exhibit features a 6.3 million gallon tank filled with a variety of marine animals.
- The exhibit is designed to mimic the natural habitat of the sharks, with features such as coral reefs and rocky outcroppings.
- Visitors can walk through the exhibit and get up close and personal with the sharks, or take a ride on the aquarium’s glass-bottomed boat.
The Cold Water Quest Exhibit
The Cold Water Quest exhibit is a unique exhibit at the Georgia Aquarium, featuring a variety of cold-water marine animals, including sharks, fish, and invertebrates. The exhibit is designed to mimic the natural habitats of the animals, with features such as icebergs and rocky outcroppings. Visitors can walk through the exhibit and get up close and personal with the animals, or take a ride on the aquarium’s glass-bottomed boat.
Facts About the Cold Water Quest Exhibit
- The Cold Water Quest exhibit is a unique exhibit at the Georgia Aquarium.
- The exhibit features a variety of cold-water marine animals, including sharks, fish, and invertebrates.
- The exhibit is designed to mimic the natural habitats of the animals, with features such as icebergs and rocky outcroppings.
- Visitors can walk through the exhibit and get up close and personal with the animals, or take a ride on the aquarium’s glass-bottomed boat.
Conclusion
The Georgia Aquarium is home to a variety of sharks, including the whale shark, the bonnethead shark, and the sand tiger shark. Each of these species has its own unique characteristics and habits, making them a fascinating sight to behold. The aquarium’s exhibits are designed to mimic the natural habitats of the sharks, providing a safe and secure environment for the animals. Whether you’re a shark enthusiast or just looking for a unique and educational experience, the Georgia Aquarium is a must-visit destination.
Recap
In this article, we’ve taken a closer look at the different types of sharks you can see at the Georgia Aquarium, including the whale shark, the bonnethead shark, and the sand tiger shark. We’ve also explored the aquarium’s exhibits, including the Ocean Voyager exhibit and the Cold Water Quest exhibit. Whether you’re a shark enthusiast or just looking for a unique and educational experience, the Georgia Aquarium is a must-visit destination. (See Also: How Long to Spend at Shedd Aquarium? Plan Your Day)
Key Points
- The Georgia Aquarium is home to a variety of sharks, including the whale shark, the bonnethead shark, and the sand tiger shark.
- The aquarium’s exhibits are designed to mimic the natural habitats of the sharks, providing a safe and secure environment for the animals.
- The Ocean Voyager exhibit is one of the largest exhibits at the Georgia Aquarium, featuring a 6.3 million gallon tank filled with a variety of marine animals.
- The Cold Water Quest exhibit is a unique exhibit at the Georgia Aquarium, featuring a variety of cold-water marine animals, including sharks, fish, and invertebrates.
FAQs
What kind of sharks are at the Georgia Aquarium?
The Georgia Aquarium is home to several species of sharks, including the whale shark, the bonnethead shark, and the sand tiger shark.
Can I touch the sharks at the Georgia Aquarium?
No, you cannot touch the sharks at the Georgia Aquarium. The aquarium is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for the animals, and touching or handling them is not allowed.
Can I feed the sharks at the Georgia Aquarium?
No, you cannot feed the sharks at the Georgia Aquarium. The aquarium provides a controlled diet for the animals, and feeding them is not allowed.
Can I take photos with the sharks at the Georgia Aquarium?
How long does it take to see all the exhibits at the Georgia Aquarium?
The Georgia Aquarium is a large aquarium, and it may take several hours to see all the exhibits. However, the aquarium offers a variety of interactive exhibits and activities that can help you make the most of your visit.