New England Aquarium Debuts New Live Coral Exhibit, “Healthy Corals, Healthy Reefs”

BOSTON, MASS. (November 22, 2024) – The New England Aquarium has opened a new exhibit, “Healthy Corals, Healthy Reefs,” a 15-foot, nearly 5,000-gallon exhibit that is home to a variety of live coral species native to the Indo-Pacific region, and species that are new to the Aquarium, such as angelfish, butterfly fish, wrasses, surgeonfish, and reef dwelling invertebrates.  

*PHOTOS AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD HERE, WITH CREDIT TO NEW ENGLAND AQUARIUM* 

Three smaller jewel tanks offer a closer look at rotating elements of the coral reef ecosystem. Interactive elements provide a variety of multi-sensory experiences that are especially impactful for tactile or visually impaired learners, including coral-esque structures. The exhibit is situated on the first floor next to the Indo-Pacific Coral Reef and features a low-set window for children and for visitors using wheelchairs to have an unobstructed view.  

Aquarists raised the live coral by mimicking their natural water quality parameters like alkalinity and calcium levels, feeding them, and using nutrients to optimize their health and speed their growth. The team also designed and fabricated the rocky habitat that the corals are attached to, and carefully thought through where to place each coral species on the structure based on their varying preferences for factors like intensity of water flow and light.   

The exhibit aims to educate visitors on a common misconception—corals are animals, not plants—and that corals are vital to reef and ocean health. It will also educate Aquarium guests about the conditions coral reefs need to thrive and the conservation efforts needed to protect our coral health, with the goal of inspiring visitors to take action to protect the ocean.  

“Education and conservation are at the heart of what we do at the New England Aquarium. This new exhibit provides the opportunity to teach our visitors about coral health and inspire them to take action to protect the ocean,” said Vikki N. Spruill, President and CEO of the New England Aquarium. “Corals are not just animals unto themselves—they are home to thousands of ocean species and support a quarter of all marine life. It is vital that we raise this awareness and share the importance of coral conservation.” 

Given that corals are live animals, this exhibit will grow over time, creating an evolving habitat. Visitors can enjoy returning again and again to an exhibit that looks slightly different each time—and see just how corals are the foundation of marine ecosystems.  

The exhibit is open during regular Aquarium hours, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and until 6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. 

MEDIA CONTACT: Jenn Seabolt, 808-372-9065; jenn@teakmedia.com