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Imagine: Poison dart frogs hunt insects among the leaf litter of the rainforest floor, boasting bright colors to warn off predators. A caiman hides in plain sight near a gnarled mangrove, nose and eyes barely visible above the surface of the river. Below, red-bellied piranhas school in murky waters, waiting for their next meal.
Opening May 23, this exhibit highlights four distinct ecoregions, including the Amazon basin’s savannah, tropical rainforests, flooded forests, and river system.
Step into one of the largest forested regions on Earth. Towering trees stretch so high they seem to “touch” the sky, forming a dense green canopy that nearly blocks out the sun.
All around you, the Amazon hums and cries with the calls of countless animals, each habitat alive in its own way. Flowing through them all is the mighty Amazon River, winding nearly 4,000 miles. Together, these landscapes form the Amazon Basin—a place richer in plants and animals than anywhere else on the planet.
As you travel through this exhibit, imagine yourself on an expedition deep in the heart of the basin. It is an adventure for the senses—flashes of brilliant color dart through the canopy, insects drone and birds call overhead, warm humid air settles on your skin, and the earthy scent of rain-soaked soil surrounds you. With every step, a new sight, sound, or shadow invites you to look closer and discover what lies just ahead.
Featuring mural illustrations by Alexandar Vidal
Since opening in 1992, the Oregon Coast Aquarium has been a premier attraction on Oregon’s central coast and an enduring advocate for the health of our ocean. For over three decades this 501(c)3 non-profit organization has supported marine wildlife and fostered environmental stewardship through its education programs, community partnerships, and rehabilitation efforts. Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, the Oregon Coast Aquarium is consistently ranked as one of the top 10 aquariums in the U.S., providing visitors with opportunities to connect with 15,000 animals spanning 300 different species. The Oregon Coast Aquarium is located at 2820 S.E. Ferry Slip Rd., Newport, OR. Learn more about the Oregon Coast Aquarium and its vital work at aquarium.org, 541-867-3474. Follow us on Facebook or Twitter for the latest updates.
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