The San Diego Zoo, in partnership with SeaWorld, offers a captivating exhibit dedicated to jellyfish called “Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience.” This exhibit showcases a diverse range of jellyfish species, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about these fascinating marine creatures.
Exhibit Overview
The “Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience” exhibit at the San Diego Zoo is the first of its kind at SeaWorld parks. The exhibit features three distinct galleries, each showcasing a variety of jellyfish species. Visitors can explore the mesmerizing movements and vibrant colors of these marine invertebrates, gaining a deeper understanding of their importance in the ocean ecosystem.
Jellyfish Species Highlights
The San Diego Zoo’s jellyfish exhibit features four unique species:
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Moon Jellyfish: These translucent, umbrella-shaped jellyfish are known for their gentle, pulsing movements and their ability to thrive in a wide range of ocean environments.
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Pacific Sea Nettles: Characterized by their long, trailing tentacles and vibrant, reddish-brown hues, Pacific Sea Nettles are a captivating sight to behold.
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Upside-Down Jellyfish: As the name suggests, these jellyfish spend most of their time resting on the seafloor, with their tentacles facing upwards to catch passing prey.
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Comb Jellies: Unlike true jellyfish, Comb Jellies are not stinging creatures. Instead, they use their cilia (tiny, hair-like structures) to propel themselves through the water, creating a mesmerizing display of iridescent colors.
Exhibit Hours and Admission Rates
The San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld are open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. General admission for the San Diego Zoo is $59 for adults and $49 for children, while SeaWorld admission is $89.99 for adults and $79.99 for children. The Jellyfish Experience is included in the SeaWorld admission price.
Value and Benefits of the Annual Pass
SeaWorld offers an annual pass, starting at $13.25 a month, which provides guests with a range of benefits, including:
- Up to six free guest tickets
- Access to exclusive events
- Free parking
- Special savings on merchandise, food, and beverage options
- Ride quick queue
- Behind-the-scenes animal tours
Additional Attractions at SeaWorld San Diego
In addition to the Jellyfish Experience, SeaWorld San Diego features a variety of other aquariums and exhibits, allowing visitors to see a diverse array of marine life, including rays, sharks, octopus, eels, crabs, and hundreds of species of fish. Guests can also observe and learn more about marine mammals such as belugas, southern sea otters, walruses, sea lions, harbor seals, orcas, and dolphins.
Real-life Incidents: Velella velella on San Diego Beaches
San Diego beaches occasionally experience an influx of Velella velella, or “by-the-wind sailors,” which are jellyfish-like creatures that can wash up in large numbers due to wind and tide patterns. These creatures are not dangerous to humans but can sting small crustaceans and larvae.
Conclusion
The San Diego Zoo’s “Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience” exhibit offers a unique and captivating opportunity for visitors to learn about the fascinating world of jellyfish. With its diverse species, interactive displays, and educational content, the exhibit is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in marine life and the importance of ocean conservation.
References:
– YouTube Video: Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience
– New Jellyfish Exhibit Coming to SeaWorld San Diego
– YouTube Video: Jellyfish Exhibit at SeaWorld San Diego
– What Are Those Blue Blobs Piling Up on San Diego Beaches? Those Are Velella Velellas
– Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience – An All-New Exhibit Opening in 2024