Sydney Aquarium unveiled a brand new exhibit to the public – the Tropical Bay of Rays – one of fourteen new exhibits set to reopen as part of the attraction's extensive $10M refurbishment program.
A team of dedicated Sydney Aquarium aquarists have expertly manoeuvred the exotic marine rays into their new home, the Tropical Bay of Rays exhibit – a centralised tank, surrounded by tropical palms and a pink illuminated sunset scene. The exhibit will be home to a variety of unique species including the Leopard Whipray, the Blue-spotted Maskray, the Blue-spotted Fantail Ray, the Leopard Shark and the White-spotted Guitarfish.
This is the first time this colourful collection of animals – many of which are endangered or threatened – has been displayed together in the world.
In the Tropical Bay of Rays exhibit, it is hard to miss the Leopard Whipray with its leopard-like markings and elongated thin whip tail. Some grow to have a tail 3.5 times longer than their bodies! Guests will also be mesmerised by the electric blue spots of the Blue-spotted Maskray and the Blue-spotted Fantail Ray as they glide through the exhibit.
Also living alongside these stingrays is the Leopard Shark, which is immediately identifiable due to the striking large spots all over its back. This species is also known as the Zebra shark as they are born with stripes – not spots! The White-spotted Guitarfish is also part of this unique collection of marine animals, with its three fins, guitar-shaped body and white spots.
The new area will give visitors an up-close glimpse into the lives of these graceful creatures and will also offer a variety of interactive opportunities including daily feeds and informative talks on the different species.
The new Tropical Bay of Rays exhibit is just one of many exciting activities on offer to the public ahead of the attraction's grand reopening as SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium this September.
Sydney Aquarium, Aquarium Wharf, Darling Harbour
(right next door to WILD LIFE Sydney)
Opening hours: 9am – 8pm daily
Cost: Prices from $17.50 when you book online. Walk-up price – Adults: $35, Children (4-15yrs): $20, Concession: $28. For the best value, combine Sydney Aquarium with a pick and mix of your other favourite Sydney attractions including WILD LIFE Sydney, Madame Tussauds Sydney, Sydney Tower Eye and Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary. The more you see, the more you save.
For more information and exciting updates on the soon-to-be launched SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, please visit: www.sydneyaquarium.com.au
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