Georgia Aquarium is home to an incredible array of marine life, and its shark exhibits are among the most captivating. In fact, Georgia Aquarium's "SHARKS! Predators of the Deep®" gallery is one of the largest and most immersive shark exhibits in North America, offering visitors an unparalleled glimpse into the world of these creatures.
Fascinating Shark Facts
Sharks are among the most interesting and diverse creatures in the ocean. Check out these interesting facts:
-
Ancient Predators: Sharks have been around for over 400 million years, predating dinosaurs. They have evolved into over 500 species, each adapted to different environments.
-
Sensory Superpowers: Sharks possess extraordinary senses, including the ability to detect electromagnetic fields produced by other animals. This helps them locate prey even in murky waters.
-
Varied Diets: Some sharks, like the great white, are known for their carnivorous diets. Others, like the whale shark, feed primarily on plankton.
-
Reproductive Diversity: Sharks exhibit diverse reproductive strategies, including oviparous (egg-laying) and viviparous (live-bearing) methods. Some species even display parthenogenesis, where females can reproduce without males.
Meet the Shark Species at Georgia Aquarium
The different Georgia Aquarium shark species each have unique characteristics and behaviors. Explore the species you can encounter at this world-renowned aquarium.
Great Hammerhead Sharks
Recognizable by their distinctive, hammer-shaped heads, great hammerhead sharks use their head structure to enhance their sensory capabilities and hunting efficiency. Their wide-set eyes provide a better visual range, while the shape of their heads allows them to detect prey more effectively. Known for their schooling behavior during the day and solitary hunting at night, these sharks provide an intriguing glimpse into the complexities of marine life. They commonly grow up to 18 feet in length and are often seen swimming in warmer, shallow coastal waters.
Silvertip Sharks
Agile and powerful swimmers, silvertip sharks are named for the striking white tips on their fins. Often found near coral reefs and in the open ocean, they play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems by preying on a variety of fish and smaller sharks. Their sleek, silver appearance, combined with their impressive speed, adds to the aquarium's captivating underwater display. Silvertip sharks are known for their curious nature and are often observed investigating divers and underwater equipment.
Sand Tiger Sharks
With their formidable appearance, sand tiger sharks are both fascinating and misunderstood. Despite their sharp teeth and fearsome looks, they are relatively docile creatures, often gliding slowly through the water. These sharks have a unique behavior of gulping air at the surface, which they store in their stomachs to maintain buoyancy. Observing these sharks offers insights into their behaviors and the broader narrative of shark conservation. They primarily inhabit coastal waters and can reach lengths of up to 10.5 feet.
Tiger Sharks
Known for their distinctive stripes, which fade as they mature, and their diverse diet, tiger sharks are apex predators in the ocean. Their ability to consume a wide range of prey, including fish, seals, birds, and even inanimate objects, highlights their adaptability and critical role in the marine food chain. Watching these impressive sharks in action highlights their importance in maintaining oceanic balance. They can grow up to 18 feet long and are often found in tropical and subtropical waters. Tiger sharks are known for their solitary and nocturnal hunting habits, making them efficient predators.
SHARKS! Predators of the Deep® Exhibit
"SHARKS! Predators of the Deep®" offers an extraordinary experience for shark enthusiasts. Spanning 20 feet deep and 185 feet long, this state-of-the-art exhibit features floor-to-ceiling acrylic windows to provide visitors with a breathtaking view of the underwater world.
Interactive Experiences
One of the highlights of the exhibit is the interactive experiences available to visitors. The shark cage dive, guided by Georgia Aquarium Dive staff, allows guests to come face-to-face with sharks in their natural habitat without needing a diving certification. This 2.5-hour adventure offers a thrilling and educational experience that you won't find anywhere else.
Importance of Sharks in the Ocean Ecosystem
Sharks play a vital role in maintaining the health of the ocean. As apex predators, they help regulate the populations of other marine species for a balanced and healthy ecosystem.
Population Control
Sharks help control the population of species below them in the food chain, such as fish and invertebrates. By preying on the sick, weak, and old, they ensure that the strongest and healthiest individuals survive, which promotes genetic strength and diversity.
Health of Marine Habitats
Sharks contribute to the health of marine habitats like coral reefs and seagrass beds. For example, by preying on herbivorous fish, sharks prevent overgrazing on seagrasses, which are crucial for carbon sequestration and serve as nurseries for many marine species.
Indicator Species
Sharks are considered indicator species because their presence, absence, or population size can reflect the health of marine ecosystems. A healthy shark population often indicates a well-balanced and thriving ecosystem.
Threats to Sharks
Despite their importance, sharks face numerous threats. Overfishing, bycatch, habitat destruction, and climate change are significant challenges. Many shark species are overexploited for their fins, meat, and liver oil. Additionally, climate change affects their habitats and food sources, further endangering these vital predators.
Sustainable Practices at Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is committed to sustainability and has been granted LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification for its latest expansions, including the "SHARKS! Predators of the Deep®" gallery. This certification recognizes the aquarium's efforts to create a healthy, efficient, and environmentally friendly space for both visitors and marine life.
Plan Your Georgia Aquarium Shark Visit With CityPASS®
If you're planning a visit to the Georgia Aquarium and other top attractions in Atlanta, CityPASS® tickets are an excellent option. Atlanta CityPASS® tickets offer significant savings and include admission to theGeorgia Aquarium,World of Coca-Cola, and more. It's the perfect way to explore the best of Atlanta while enjoying great value.
Lodging in Atlanta
To get the most out of your stay in Atlanta, we recommend finding lodging near Atlanta's top attractions. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
Booking.comHeader Image Photo Courtesy of Georgia Aquarium