MIAMI SEAQUARIUM

privately owned oceanarium in Miami, Fla., U.S., that has one of the world's largest collections of marine animals, composed of 10,000 specimens of 400 fish species, 35 specimens of 6 marine mammal groups, and 500 invertebrates representing more than 50 species. The huge aquarium building consists of two three-story main tanks and numerous smaller units. The largest of the tanks holds 450,000 gallons (1,703,000 litres) of seawater and houses a wide variety of large animals, such as rays, moray eels, sawfish, groupers, and sea turtles. The smaller main tank, called the Reef Tank, contains a specialty display of a tropical coral reef and holds a diversity of fishes and marine invertebrates. Besides the indoor aquarium displays, several outdoor exhibits are located on the 60-acre (24-hectare) facility. These include both observational exhibits and performances featuring killer whales, sharks, sea lions, manatees, and dolphins. Besides staging such exhibits and live shows, the Miami Seaquarium sponsors films, publishes educational materials, and maintains a library of oceanic sciences.