Florida is typically known for its pristine beaches and numerous theme parks found in both Orlando and Tampa. A state filled with natural beauty, the focus of its zoos and aquariums tend to be on conservation and stewardship of the natural environment as well as offering guests the opportunity to see both native and exotic animals up close. ZooTampa and The Florida Aquarium are nationally recognized for not only caring for and rehabilitating animals, but also offering guests memorable interactive experiences. What’s the best option to enjoy both attractions and save? ZooQuarium tickets grant admission to the two attractions and an experience you will not soon forget. Tampa’s ZooQuarium inspires and educates it’s visitors year-round. So read on
Committed to Conservation at The Florida Aquarium!
One of the ways Tampa’s ZooQuarium Inspires is conservation at the Florida Aquarium. Conservation has always been at the heart of The Florida Aquarium both within its doors and abroad. From coral reproduction and sea turtle rehabilitation at its Center for Conservation to planting coral in the Florida Keys to the study of sand tiger sharks to conservation-inspired exhibits at its main campus in downtown Tampa; The Florida Aquarium remains steadfast in its mission to entertain, educate, and inspire stewardship of the natural environment.
Never wavering in its commitment to protect and restore our blue planet, The Florida Aquarium once again made history this year by being the first to reproduce ridged cactus coral or Mycetophyllia Lamarckian under human care. The breakthrough happened in April at the Aquarium’s Center for Conservation located in Apollo Beach. Two government agencies collaborated with the Aquarium in an effort to save The Florida Reef Tract from extinction: the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission plus National Marine Fisheries Service, which is part of the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration.
The effort does not stop at coral reproduction either as biologists also rehabilitate sea turtles. Sea turtles are often injured by swallowing plastic bags and getting caught in discarded fishing lines and nets. The Aquarium treats their wounds and restores them back to a healthy state at the Center for Conservation before releasing the sea turtles back into the wild.
Beyond the important work that happens at the Center for Conservation, The Florida Aquarium’s main campus in downtown Tampa is where visitors of all ages have the opportunity to see thousands of native species that call Florida home. Visitors also learn about all the inspiring conservation work that is being done for the benefit of the community and the environment.
Upon visiting the Aquarium, guests are immersed in an interactive experience sure to leave an impact on the whole family. With an impressive wetlands atrium that simulates Florida’s natural environment, guests will view numerous native species including alligators, otters, and colorful Pink Spoonbills as well as the invasive Burmese Python that continues to threaten Florida’s natural environment. Guests will also get a glimpse of Florida’s natural fauna as they walk by a Cypress Swamp and through a tunnel of live mangroves.
Further exploration will take guests through the aquarium’s Coral Reef Gallery leading them to the largest exhibit featuring the impressive (and fan favorite) sand tiger sharks. Sand tiger sharks are yet another important pillar of conservation at the Aquarium, and it is with great delight that guests are able to view these sharks up close and really feel like they are in a coral reef.
The final stop during the walkthrough is the Waves of Wonder Gallery. This section features the second-largest exhibit called the Heart of the Sea where guests can view spotted eagle rays, bonnethead sharks, and a loggerhead sea turtle. This exhibit also draws attention to conservation efforts as the habitat contains examples of coral trees much like the ones used to grow coral in open water nurseries.
It is worth noting that a portion of the proceeds from every admission ticket sold, including ZooQuarium tickets, goes toward The Florida Aquarium’s conservation efforts. Want to explore The Florida Aquarium and ZooTampa first hand? Purchasing a ZooQuarium ticket not only saves money, but it also helps protect and restore the natural environment too!
COVID-19 Note
To follow social distancing guidelines, both attractions are severely limiting guest capacity which affects how tickets are being distributed. ZooQuarium tickets may not be available at the time of this post. Visit your favorite online retailer’s page to see if ZooQuarium tickets are being sold. If not, check back often. ZooTampa and The Florida Aquarium look forward to welcoming you in the future! Its the perfect addition to any trip because Tampa’s ZooQuarium inspires.