What To Know
- The Georgia Aquarium, a renowned marine sanctuary in Atlanta, Georgia, boasts one of the world’s largest and most awe-inspiring whale shark tanks.
- It is a testament to the aquarium’s commitment to conservation and education, inspiring awe and fostering a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the ocean.
- The whale sharks are fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening.
The Georgia Aquarium, a renowned marine sanctuary in Atlanta, Georgia, boasts one of the world’s largest and most awe-inspiring whale shark tanks. Its sheer size and the magnificent creatures it houses have captivated visitors from far and wide. Let’s delve into the extraordinary dimensions of this underwater marvel:
Dimensions of the Whale Shark Tank
The Georgia Aquarium‘s whale shark tank is a colossal structure that spans:
- Length: 102 feet (31 meters)
- Width: 72 feet (22 meters)
- Depth: 23 feet (7 meters)
With a capacity of approximately 6.3 million US gallons (24 million liters), this tank provides an expansive habitat for its majestic inhabitants.
The Whales of the Tank
The centerpiece of the whale shark tank is its resident whale sharks, the largest fish species on Earth. These gentle giants can grow up to 40 feet (12 meters) long and weigh over 40,000 pounds (18,000 kilograms). The aquarium currently houses four whale sharks:
- Ralph: A male weighing over 20,000 pounds (9,000 kilograms)
- Alice: A female weighing over 15,000 pounds (6,800 kilograms)
- Yushan: A female weighing approximately 12,000 pounds (5,400 kilograms)
- Taroko: A male weighing over 10,000 pounds (4,500 kilograms)
Other Tank Inhabitants
In addition to whale sharks, the tank is home to a diverse array of marine life, including:
- Zebra sharks: With their distinctive black and white stripes
- Leopard sharks: Known for their spotted patterns
- Sand tiger sharks: With their unusual teeth
- Cownose rays: With their broad, flat heads
- Southern stingrays: With their long, venomous tails
Filtration and Water Quality
Maintaining the pristine water quality essential for the health of the tank’s inhabitants is paramount. The aquarium employs a state-of-the-art filtration system that includes:
- Sand filters: To trap large particles
- Biological filters: To remove ammonia and nitrites
- UV sterilizers: To kill bacteria and viruses
Feeding the Whales
Whale sharks are filter feeders, meaning they consume microscopic plankton and small fish. The aquarium provides a carefully balanced diet that includes:
- Krill: Small, shrimp-like crustaceans
- Mysis: Tiny, planktonic shrimp
- Copepods: Microscopic crustaceans
Conservation and Research
The Georgia Aquarium is actively involved in whale shark conservation and research. The tank serves as a platform for studying the behavior, biology, and health of these enigmatic creatures. The aquarium also supports research on whale shark populations in the wild.
A Window to the Deep
The Georgia Aquarium’s whale shark tank offers visitors an unforgettable opportunity to witness the grandeur of these marine giants up close. It is a testament to the aquarium’s commitment to conservation and education, inspiring awe and fostering a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the ocean.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: How many whale sharks are in the Georgia Aquarium tank?
A: There are currently four whale sharks in the tank: Ralph, Alice, Yushan, and Taroko.
Q: How often do the whale sharks eat?
A: The whale sharks are fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening.
Q: Can I touch the whale sharks?
A: No, touching the whale sharks or any other animals in the tank is prohibited.
Q: How much does it cost to visit the Georgia Aquarium?
A: Ticket prices vary depending on the date and time of visit. Please check the aquarium’s website for current pricing.
Q: How long does it take to tour the Georgia Aquarium?
A: Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the aquarium, but the duration can vary depending on the pace and interest level.
Q: Is the Georgia Aquarium wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the aquarium is fully wheelchair accessible and provides wheelchairs for visitor use.
Q: Are there any discounts for Georgia Aquarium tickets?
A: Discounts are available for children, seniors, military members, and groups. Please visit the aquarium’s website for details.
Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks into the Georgia Aquarium?
A: Outside food and drinks are not permitted in the aquarium. However, there are several dining options available within the facility.
Q: What are the hours of operation for the Georgia Aquarium?
A: The aquarium is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Please check the website for any schedule changes.
Q: Is the Georgia Aquarium open on holidays?
A: The aquarium is open on most holidays, but hours may vary. Please check the website for holiday hours.
