Sculptors make the rocks in the exhibits from fiberglass-reinforced concrete (they even make some from molds of real rocks).
Interior Decorating
Fall 1983
As the Aquarium building nears completion, the Kelp Forest, Monterey Bay Habitats and Sea Otter exhibits undergo leak tests and then are transformed into granite grottos. Many of the reef rocks and backdrops in the exhibits are made of lightweight fiberglass-reinforced concrete sprayed onto mesh forms. Artificial rockwork on the floor of the Kelp Forest exhibit duplicates a granite reef where giant kelp holdfasts anchor the huge plants to the rocks.
Prior to the rock work, the Kelp Forest exhibit is filled with water to test for cracks and leaks in the concrete and around special viewing windows. Aquarists take a fish-eyed view to check out the home to be.
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