This captivating exhibit showcases the unique wildlife and geography of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve’s lowland rainforest.
Coral Reef
The Coral Reef exhibit brings the unparalleled beauty of the Caribbean’s coral reefs to South Texas.
Replicating the features of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef off the coast of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, the Coral Reef exhibit gives an immersive look at these incredible ecosystems and the colorful fish that call them home. An overlook in the jungle level gives an advance look at the coral reef from above, hinting at the astonishing environment that waits below the surface.
But in the underwater view, the full splendor of the Coral Reef truly unfolds. Fish of every possible color and pattern dance and dart in the crystal-clear water, hiding among vibrant and strangely-shaped coral. Angelfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, grunts, and other brilliantly-colored species can also be found in this undersea paradise. Marvel at this underwater landscape and the colorful fish within as they feed, swim, and coexist. Soak in the sights and feel transported to real coral reefs of the Caribbean.
The Coral Reef shows guests these complex but fragile ecosystems in a new light, giving them a better appreciation of why it’s so important to protect these incredible underwater worlds.
animals in this exhibit
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This common jellyfish species is translucent, revealing anatomy inside its bell. With limited swimming ability, moon jellies often drift with the current.
Bamboo sharks are oviparous (they lay eggs). Their egg casings are nicknamed “mermaid’s purses.”
Commonly called a pufferfish, this species can inflate its body by swallowing air or water to deter predators. Sharp spines offer another line of defense.
The parrotfish’s large beak is used to scrape algae and other organisms from rocks and hard coral.
Found throughout the Atlantic and Caribbean, they can grow up to 45 inches in width and weigh 50 pounds or more. When threatened, they can use a barbed tail with toxin for defense.
