Georgia Aquarium

Georgia Aquarium. Opened in 2005 in Atlanta, it is one of the largest aquariums in the world by water volume. The facility was made possible by a transformative gift from Bernie Marcus, co-founder of The Home Depot, and his wife Billi Marcus. It houses tens of thousands of animals across hundreds of species in its expansive, state-of-the-art habitats.

History

The concept was championed by Bernie Marcus following a visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, with the goal of creating a world-class attraction in Atlanta. A landmark $250 million donation from the Marcus Foundation funded the initial construction, with the building designed by the architectural firm Thompson, Ventulett, Stainback & Associates. Its opening was a major civic event, attended by then-Governor Sonny Perdue and Mayor Shirley Franklin. A significant early acquisition was a group of whale sharks from Taiwan, which established its global reputation. The institution later expanded with major additions like the Cold Water Quest gallery and formed key partnerships with organizations like Emory University and the University of Georgia.

Exhibits and galleries

The aquatic displays are organized into several permanent galleries, each representing distinct global biomes. Ocean Voyager, built by The Home Depot, features a 6.3-million-gallon habitat viewed through a massive acrylic window and tunnel, housing whale sharks, manta rays, and hammerhead sharks. Tropical Diver recreates a Indo-Pacific coral reef ecosystem teeming with species like jellyfish and parrotfish. Cold Water Quest showcases species from colder latitudes, including beluga whales from the Arctic and Japanese spider crabs. Other major areas include River Scout, exploring freshwater environments like the Amazon River, and the AT&T Dolphin Celebration presentation featuring bottlenose dolphins.

Conservation and research

Its scientific mission is advanced through the on-site Correll Center for Aquatic Animal Health and partnerships with the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. Research focuses on veterinary medicine, species reproduction, and water quality science, with published studies on species like manta rays and sea turtles. The aquarium is a founding member of the Whale Shark Scientific Advisory Board and participates in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plans. Field initiatives include the Georgia Aquarium Conservation Field Station, which conducts rescue and rehabilitation for marine mammals along the Gulf Coast in collaboration with the National Marine Fisheries Service.

Animal care and welfare

Animal health is managed by a dedicated team of veterinarians and nutritionists, utilizing advanced facilities like the Aquatic Animal Health Center and a full-service veterinary pharmacy. Life support systems, engineered by firms like Life Support Systems, Inc., meticulously regulate water chemistry and temperature for each habitat. Diets are custom-prepared in a centralized commissary, with feeding regimens developed through studies with institutions like the University of California, Davis. The behavioral enrichment program, overseen by professional aquarists, is designed to stimulate natural behaviors for cognitively complex species such as California sea lions and common bottlenose dolphins.

Visitor information and impact

Located in downtown Atlanta near Centennial Olympic Park and the World of Coca-Cola, it anchors the city's tourism district. It offers various public experiences, including behind-the-scenes tours and animal interactions. The institution is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and has received awards like the Michelin Guide's three-star rating. As a major economic driver, it contributes significantly to the local economy and supports educational outreach through school programs and partnerships with Atlanta Public Schools. Its iconic status was further cemented by appearances in media such as the The Amazing Race and hosting events for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Category:Aquariums in the United States Category:Tourist attractions in Atlanta Category:Buildings and structures in Atlanta