Believe it or not, it has been 53 years since the historic rotunda space at the Shedd Aquarium has welcomed a new exhibit. Today, Wonder of Water officially takes over the area, featuring two habitats—a freshwater ecosystem and a saltwater one—with live corals, plants and a vast variety of different fish.
“The message of this exhibit is a simple one: water is what makes the dazzling biodiversity on Earth possible. Water is a precious and finite resource,” said Sarah Hezel, vice president of design and exhibits at Shedd Aquarium, in an official statement. “This space transports our guests out of their lives for a moment to connect with life underwater, to spark our visitors’ curiosity and sense of wonder.”
According to a press release, both newly installed habitats are living ecosystems that will evolve and expand in years to come, so visitors will get to experience a slightly different version of the production every time they step into the aquarium.
At the moment, the freshwater space features over 5,000 fish swimming among a variety of 50 plant species, some of which at over seven feet tall. The saltwater portion of the exhibit, on the other hand, is made up of 1,500 reef fish.
"Side by side, guests will see the distinct differences and surprising similarities between fresh and saltwater environments," reads the release.
But you'll be able to do more than just see when stepping into Shedd: An audio composition will help you immerse yourself in the rotunda, elevating your journey into the world of water while 43 on-site tactile models will assist with hands-on learning about the various species.
See you at the Shedd Aquarium this weekend?
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