The strong El Niño of 1997 causes the sea water we pump through our exhibits to warm to as much as 67 degrees Fahrenheit. The warm, nutrient-poor water is not good for some Aquarium residents. Aquarists spray diluted fertilizer on the surface kelp fronds to keep the kelp strong. They also operate a chilling system—sometimes 24 hours a day—to provide sensitive animals like giant Pacific octopus and jellies with the 59-degree water they prefer.
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