Explore Our History

Mysteries of the Deep

This special exhibit features more than 50 live, rarely seen fishes and invertebrates from the seafloor, midwater and walls of Monterey Canyon, mostly collected with the help of Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute's remotely operated submersible. Videos and interactive displays also help visitors learn about the challenges of life in an environment characterized by cold, darkness and extreme pressure. In September 2000, the exhibition—the largest living deep sea exhibit ever created—wins the American Zoo and Aquarium Association award as best new exhibit of the year.

Discriminating Tastes

Many of the animals that live in mid- and deep waters are delicate and therefore difficult to collect and display. Water temperature must be between 40 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Some species are sensitive to light and have to be in exhibits that screen out certain wavelengths. Others require higher water pressure; some need sea water with low oxygen levels. Our research team works hand-in-hand with our designers to create compelling exhibits that keep the animals healthy and allow visitors to have a good view of them.