Mote Aquarium opens in Sarasota Wednesday

The new Mote Science Education Aquarium at Nathan Benderson Park in Sarasota is opening to the public next Wednesday, Oct. 8.

Mote SEA will provide science education and enhanced levels of ocean literacy to much larger and more diverse populations from around the world. The 146,000-square-foot facility will enable individuals of all ages and backgrounds to engage with the ocean and experience a window into Mote’s globally-significant marine science research and conservation initiatives.

The innovative facility features three state-of-the-art STEM Teaching Labs focused on Biomedical, Microbiology and Immunology; Marine and Coastal Ecology; and Ocean Engineering, AI Technology, Robotics and Sensor Development. These labs will provide hands-on experiential learning to students from Sarasota and Manatee county schools (as well as those schools in nearby counties). The STEM Teaching and Workforce Training Labs include wall-to-wall glass windows, so guests can observe and enjoy scientists and students learning and conducting research in real time.

Founded in 1955 in a one-room trailer in Placida, by Dr. Eugenie (“Genie”) Clark, Mote has become one of the most unique and impactful independent marine research and science education institutions in the world. With over 300 staff, Mote has now expanded to nine campuses across Florida. Admission tickets are available only online until further notice.

Visit mote.org to reserve tickets for opening week; at presstime there were still a few opening day time slots.