summer 2012 - Tennessee Aquarium

Transcription

summer 2012 - Tennessee Aquarium
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SUMMER 2012 • $1.50
PARTY AT THE PEAKS
SATURDAY,, APRIL 28th
See page 18 for details
November 2011 — A group of people, standing above the Gulf of Mexico
exhibit, watch aquarists below performing a saltwater rodeo. The last
puffers, tangs and moray eels are rounded up and gently hoisted out of the
nearly empty tank. They are being shared with other Aquariums wanting
to add some dynamic animals to their exhibits. This is the beginning of
something new. Something completely unlike the Aquarium’s other exhibits.
Call it, “Extreme Makeover — Aquarium Edition.”
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R I V E R WAT C H
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N E W E X H IBI T
J
ust like the popular television program,
demolition begins once the residents move
out. In this case, workers moved in with
jackhammers almost before the last drops of
water were drained from the tank. The décor
replicating the mangrove forest and pelagic portions of the Gulf of Mexico were
chiseled out. “We removed 87 tons of
concrete from this exhibit,” said Rodney
Fuller, the Aquarium’s facility and safety
manager. “This is a big project.”
Meanwhile, husbandry staffers were
busy obtaining animals from all over the
world, moving some fish from one exhibit
to the Animal Care Facility, ACF, and coordinating a pretty
large shell game of quarantine procedures for all of the
incoming animals.
While the pace has been swift, the game plan was in
place for more than a year to make River Giants unique
among Aquarium displays. “This is a pretty big departure
from all of our other exhibits,” said Jackson Andrews,
director of husbandry and operations. “Rather than showcasing animals from one ecosystem, River Giants is a collection of some of the world’s largest freshwater species along
with some dynamic species we’ve never displayed before.”
These fish are the Goliaths of freshwater. “Our Australian whiprays are already quite impressive with disc widths
of more than three feet,” said Thom Demas, the Aquarium’s curator of fishes. “And they should grow larger on
exhibit.” From Australia, the whiprays were flown to Los
Angeles and then to Atlanta. Aquarists transported the rays
by truck to the ACF. They will cause some wide-eyed stares
in River Giants. “Many people are surprised when they see
JIM
GA
RIN
these guys. They have no idea freshwater rays
get so big,” said Demas.
A batch of barramundi was trucked in from a
Massachusetts fish farm where they’re raised for market as a
sustainable seafood option. Barramundi are native to rivers
from the Indo-West Pacific all the way down to northern
Australia. These powerful looking fish are also true River
Giants, growing to more than six feet in length. Their silver
colored backs slope downward to meet a face resembling
a huge largemouth bass. This species lives most of its life
in freshwater, but migrates to saltwater estuaries to spawn.
“These fish are born male, but later in life many become
female,” said Demas. “This gender change increases the
successful reproduction and long-term survival for
this species.”
Giant pangasius catfish will be joined by a sevenfoot beluga sturgeon, giant gouramis, a beefy blue catfish
weighing more than 100 pounds, prehistoric looking
arapaima and a group of alligator gar. A pair of wallagos,
continued on next page
On the cover: Prehistoric-looking arapaima can attain maximum
lengths in the wild of nearly 15 feet. Australian Whiptail rays, like the
one shown on the opposite page, can attain disc widths of nearly five
feet. Barramundi, seen above, are powerful fish capable of reaching
lengths of 6.5 feet. Wallago catfish are weird-looking fish
with massive bodies. In the wild, wallago can grow to
nearly eight feet in length.
COVER PHOTO BY TODD STAILEY
JIM G
ARIN
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R I V E R WAT C H
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TODD STAILEY
DON’T MISS THIS FISH!
Ripsaw Catfish
Oxydoras niger
Look for the ripsaw catfish in River Giants. A
hobbyist in Boston purchased this fish from
a pet shop when Dwight D. Eisenhower was
president in the late 1950’s. After about 10
years, the catfish grew bigger than he could
handle. So he gave it to the New England
Aquarium before its grand opening in 1969.
In turn, the New England Aquarium donated
the fish to the Tennessee Aquarium before
our grand opening in 1992. He’s been living
a hidden life at the bottom of the Flooded
Amazon exhibit for nearly 20 years. Ten
presidents later, this guy will finally be in
full view in River Giants.
Small Steps to Help River Giants
Everyone can take small, money-saving steps to
help river giants like lake sturgeon.
• Conserve water
• Reduce runoff
• Reduce the use of lawn chemicals
Learn more about your water footprint:
nationalgeographic.com/freshwater
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weird-looking catfish that seem
like a mashup of knife-fish, eel
and bullhead, should capture a
lot of attention. “They may be
a crowd favorite because they’re
so odd,” said Demas. “Ours
should grow rapidly on exhibit and may eventually reach
lengths of more than seven feet.
People will love seeing our
divers feeding these fish.”
Visitors will discover how
some River Giants start out
really small and later create
some big problems. Redtail
catfish, like those in the new
exhibit, are native to the Amazon and Orinoco River basins
in South America. Commonly
sold in pet shops, redtail catfish
look cute at first. “They have
voracious appetites and grow
quickly,” said Demas. “Pretty
soon the new owner has a fish that outgrows a 20, then
55 gallon tank. They don’t realize that they can reach
overall lengths of more than four feet.” Unfortunately,
in some locations these fish are illegally dumped into
the nearest stream when they become too large. If
conditions are favorable, these introduced catfish can
wreak havoc on local ecosystems.
But far more of these mega-fish are in trouble
rather than causing trouble. Once common in many
of the great river systems of the world, these species
are rapidly declining in the wild. National Geographic
explorer Dr. Zeb Hogan has documented 20 freshwater
giants from around the world for his popular television
series “Monster Fish,” which airs on Nat Geo Wild. In
the Mekong River, Hogan documented a catfish that
weighed nearly 650 pounds. While this individual
might be the world’s largest freshwater fish, the Mekong
catfish as a species is rapidly disappearing. “This species
was listed as critically endangered in 2003,” said Hogan.
“All of the countries of the lower Mekong have instituted regulations to closely monitor this species. Others
are working on further conservation efforts to keep the
Mekong catfish from going extinct.”
But for another freshwater giant, it may already be
too late. Hogan went searching for the Chinese paddlefish in 2007. Sadly, his team documented what others
suspected – that this species may be gone forever. “I
worked with the scientist who had been searching the
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JIM G
ARIN
Yangtze River for these fish for decades, but our team never
ny changing the way they position a barge, simple actions
actually saw one,” said Hogan. “My understanding is the
that we take, as individuals or businesses, are important to
last Chinese paddlefish was seen in early 2007.”
the overall health of the river,” said Dr. Anna George.
A seven-foot lake sturgeon will be among the River
The River Giants exhibit is funded in part by the
Giants in the new exhibit. It represents hope for the other
Institute of Museum and Library Services. 
freshwater species on the brink. Today anglers are reporting these prehistoric-looking fish along virtually the entire
Above: Alligator gar are southeast river giants. In 2011, a commerlength of the Tennessee River. Hogan points to the work
cial fisherman in Vicksbug, Mississippi netted a behemoth alligator
of the Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute and
gar weighing 327-pounds and measuring 8.5 feet in length. Giant
partners as a model for other giants that are vanishing.
pangasius catfish are seen in the background. These fish started
Making a connection by watching Monster Fish or seeout at the Aquarium as fingerlings and could grow on exhibit to
reach more than nine feet in length.
ing some of these River Giants first-hand is an important
step toward helping other big
species. “We need to increase
awareness to make sure
everyone knows what’s
Working On and With the River
happening in the wild,” said
Peter Serodino has worked his entire life on
Hogan. “Without that knowlsoutheastern waterways. He appreciates the
edge, there’s no support to try
Aquarium’s conservation work and underand better protect
stands the value of working with nature.
these species.”
“Serodino, Inc. is happy to support the
In addition to showcasAquarium because they provide valuable
ing some incredible freshwater
insight,” said Serodino. “The more
fish, this exhibit aims to help
knowledgeable we are about
the general public understand
environmental issues, the
that they have the power
better equipped we are
to coexist with nature.”
to have a positive impact.
“Whether it’s a homeowner
using less fertilizer or a compa-
Discover ways to support your Tennessee Aquarium at tnaqua.org/Celebrate20
R I V E R WAT C H
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FROM SEED
TO FOREST
The Aquarium generated tremendous
growth in downtown development
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COMMUNITY IMPACT
The Tennessee Aquarium is nationally
recognized for community service
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#1 IN THE NATION
We are the highest rated aquarium
in the nation for guest satisfaction
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SHARKS ON
THE RIVER
Ocean Journey gets you face to
face with steely-eyed sharks
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BEYOND IMAGINATION...
Tennessee Aquarium Members are our
best ambassadors! Thank you!
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TURTLE CENTRAL
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We are home to more turtle species than
any other zoo or aquarium in the nation
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POWERED BY PEOPLE
600 volunteers and 200 staff make the
Aquarium a world-class experience
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CONSERVATION LEADERSHIP
We are the only Aquarium honored for
our work to protect freshwater habitats
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PLAYS WELL
WITH OTHERS
The Aquarium is honored
as a national example for
collaborative partnerships
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AWARD-WINNING
These organizations and more have nationally
recognized the Aquarium for excellence
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PENGUINS’ ROCK
Macaronis and gentoos waddle, swim,
dive and thrill online and on exhibit!
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ADVENTURE
EXPRESS
River Gorge Explorer and IMAX®
take guests to beautiful places
here and around the world
Discover ways to support your Tennessee Aquarium at tnaqua.org/Celebrate20
R I V E R WAT C H
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EXTENDING
OUR REACH
Educational outreach
programs and field
conservation work expand
the Aquarium’s impact
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RE-EMERGIN’ STURGEON
Saving sturgeon from the brink of extinction
in our local ecosystem
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GREENER PRAC
PRACTICES
Proud to be one of the first Tennessee
attractions to be green-certified
SMART
SCHOOL
We are the only
Aquarium accredited
as a supplementary
educational school
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INSPIRATION
TAKES FLIGHT
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SAVING OUR SEAFOOD
We are bringing sustainable seafood to
Chattanooga’s tables with Chef Alton Brown
The Tennessee Aquarium
inspires millions of kids to
be environmental stewards
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19 MILLION & COUNTING
NEW EXHIBIT: RIVER GIANTS
Let’s make it 20 million guests by the end
of the Aquarium’s 20th anniversary year!
Come and see how the world’s largest
freshwater aquarium just got bigger
R I V E R WAT C H
Go green and get Riverwatch online! Visit tnaqua.org/Membership/Riverwatch
TENNESSEE
AQUARIUM
summer events
EVENTS
CALENDAR
Pre-registration is required for events!
RIVERWATCH EVENTS is printed on 100% post-consumer recycled paper.
Register online at: tnaqua.org/Events
Official sponsor of the Tennessee
Aquarium Membership Program.
Note: All events are held on Eastern Time
TRAVEL ADVENTURES
ON PAGE 14
MEMBER NIGHTS
REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!
JUNE
DATE DAY
REGISTER NOW online at tnaqua.org/Events
or mail form on page 16 or call 423-267-FISH (3474).
Enjoy a meal at Big River Grille or BlueWater Grille before or
after your Aquarium event. Present your Tennessee Aquarium
membership card when you order to receive a discount.
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TIME
AGES
DESCRIPTION
A & 12+
Introduction to SUP, Stand Up Paddle Board
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Sat.
10 a.m.-Noon
Adults
Backyard Organic Gardening
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Sat.
10 a.m.-Noon
5-8
What’s in Garden Dirt?
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Sun.
1:30-3:30 p.m.
Adults
Front Door Flower Basket Workshop
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Thurs.
6-9 p.m.
Adults
Picture the Aquarium
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Sat.
8:30-9:30 a.m.
Adults
SUP Yoga at Tennessee River Gardens
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Sat.
10 a.m.-Noon
All
Butterfly Walk along the River
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Thurs.
6:30-8 p.m.
Adults
Nomadic Dinner at 212 Market Restaurant 15
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Sun.
4-6 p.m.
A & 5+
Father’s Day Family Canoe Trip
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Thurs.
6:30-8:30
Adults
Broad Street Grille Seafood Dinner
15
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Fri.
7-9 p.m.
A & 12+
Sunset SUP Downtown
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Sat.-Sun.
5:30 p.m.-8:30 a.m.
A & 6+
Great American Backyard Campout
10
Sun.
1-3 p.m.
A & 14+
Touring Kayak Clinic
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DATE DAY
All Ages • Free/Members and Non-Member guests using Member Night Guest
Passes (one person per pass) • Additional Non-Member guests: Half-price
admission: $12.50/Adult; $7.50/Child
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10 a.m.-Noon
JULY
Learn fascinating facts about sharks as you view the toothy
beauties in Ocean Journey. Compare ancient Megalodon teeth
with present-day ones as Aquarium experts explain what our
sharks eat and how we keep our divers safe. Make a craft, enjoy
narrated dive shows at 6:30 & 7 p.m. and snap awesome photos
with a great white inside our diver’s shark cage. You will discover
how sharks are collected using the longline method at a display
by Senior Aquarist and shark collector Rob Mottice. Check-in
at the Ticketing Center on the Plaza.
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Friday, Aug. 3 • 6 – 8:30 p.m.
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Shark Fest at Ocean Journey
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TIME
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DESCRIPTION
Tues.
6 - 9 p.m.
All
America’s Birthday Cruise
PG.
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Tues.-Wed.
5:30 p.m.-8:30 a.m.
A & 6+
July 4th Sleep in the Deep
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Sat.
10:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
A & 5+
Snorkel the Conasauga Adventure
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Wed.
7-10 p.m.
A & 12
Bat Cave Kayak Trip
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Sat.
8:30-9:30 a.m.
Adults
SUP Yoga at Tennessee River Gardens
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Tues.
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Adults
Blue Water Grille Seafood Dinner
15
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Sat.
2-4 p.m.
A & 5+
Family Canoe Trip – North Chick
AUGUST
DATE DAY
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Fri.
6-8:30 p.m.
All
Shark Fest Member Night
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Fri.
6-9 p.m.
Adults
Downtown Sunset Paddle by Kayak
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Sat.
10 a.m.-Noon
Adults
Rainbarrel Workshop
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Sat.
9 – 11 a.m.
A & Tots
Trekking with Tykes Backyard Safari
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Thurs.
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Adults
Hennen’s Seafood Dinner
15
24
Fri.
7-10 p.m.
A & 12 +
Bat Cave Kayak Trip
12
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Sun.
2-4 p.m.
A & 6+
Family Canoe Trip-South Chick
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Fri.
7-9 p.m.
A & 12+
“Once in a Blue Moon” SUP
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R I V E R WAT C H
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TODD STAILEY
FUN FOR FAMILIES
SLEEP IN
THE DEEP
Spend an exciting overnight with your family
surrounded by sharks and colorful fish at the
Tennessee Aquarium! Explore behind the scenes,
get up-close with our critters, see an IMAX® movie
and encounter otherwise shy animals that come
out with the dark. The following adventures
include sleeping overnight in the Aquarium,
guided tours, behind the scenes, special activities
and/or a IMAX 3D film, pizza and continental
breakfast. Celebrate the Fourth includes fireworks
instead of a film.
Families with children ages 6 and older accompanied by an adult
Add a souvenir patch for $3.50! • Limited to 40; Minimum 30
Sleep in the Deep: Great
American Backyard Campout
June 23 – June 24 • 5:30 p.m. Saturday – 8:30 a.m. Sunday EST
Grab your sleeping bag and celebrate the National Wildlife Federation’s
Great American Backyard Campout in the Undersea Cavern at the Tennessee
Aquarium! Explore Ranger Rick’s Backyard Safari with special animal
encounters and discover what it’s like to be surrounded by toothy piranhas!
$50/Member; $60/Non-Member
Sleep in the Deep: Celebrate
the Fourth — Aquarium Style!
July 3 - July 4 • 5:30 p.m. Saturday – 8:30 a.m. Sunday EST
Don’t miss your chance to sleep in the deep and celebrate America’s
Birthday as you watch the “Pops on the River” fireworks from the Aquarium
patio with special 3D glasses. Sleep in the Undersea Cavern, while sharks
and thousands of colorful fish surround you.
Includes fireworks instead of an IMAX movie • $45/Member; $55/Non-Member
Trekking with Tykes Backyard Safari
At the Chattanooga Arboretum and Nature Center
Saturday, Aug. 18 • 9 – 11 a.m.
Be Out There! Bring your mini-adventurer to explore the Discovery
Forest Tree house and stroll through the Wildlife Wanderland to see animals like owls,
a bald eagle, bobcat and red wolves that live at the Chattanooga Nature Center. This
easy stroller-friendly hike is a chance for your children to learn about nature with an
Aquarium educator. BYO favorite snacks, lunch and drinks. You are welcome to stay for the
rest of the day. When you arrive, please pay appropriate admission at the Chattanooga
Arboretum and Nature Center for each person in your party.
Parents and young children • Limited to 20; Minimum 8 • Free with admission at the Nature Center: • $8/Adult;
$5/Child (ages 4-11) & Senior (65+) • Free for ages 3 and under but registration is required.
REGISTER NOW online at tnaqua.org/Events or mail form on page 16 or call 423-267-FISH (3474).
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R I V E R WAT C H
Go green and get Riverwatch online! Visit tnaqua.org/Membership/Riverwatch
WORKSHOPS
What’s in Garden Dirt?
A Workshop for Kids
Saturday, June 2 • 10 a.m. - Noon
Crabtree Farms is a non-profit
project for education and research of
sustainable agriculture. Bring your
kids to the urban farm to explore
what’s in garden dirt and how composts can be used to fertilize soil. Kids
will learn about the components of
soil, vermin-composting, home composting and even using chicken
manure as compost. They will have
the chance to meet chickens, feed
worms and take home a plant in
healthy soil to grow at home! While your child is learning about
garden dirt, come to our “Backyard Organic Gardening” workshop
and you can share gardening together at home!
Picture the Aquarium
Photography Workshop
With Tom and Pat Cory
Thursday, June 7 • 6 – 9 p.m.
Capture images of stunning marine life, fabulous penguins,
jellyfish and tropical butterflies. Begin with a short clinic before
photographing in both Aquarium buildings with hands-on advice
by professional nature photographers Tom and Pat Cory. Digital,
traditional cameras or camcorders are welcome.
Adults • Limited to 20 • $30/Member; $45/Non-Member
Ages 5-8 • Limited to 20; Minimum 12 • $15/Member; $20/Non-Member
Backyard Organic Gardening
Crabtree Farms is a non-profit project for education and
research of sustainable agriculture. Join the experts at this urban
farm for a workshop on organic gardening methods that will make
your home gardening easier and chemical-free. You will learn
about good soil cultivation, wise planting choices, seasonal growing practices, pruning, pest control and the use of natural fertilizers. Transplant an heirloom tomato plant to grow in your own
backyard. Bring your child to the “What’s in Garden Dirt” workshop
at the same time!
Adults • Limited to 30 • $25/Member; $30/Non-Member
Front Door Flower Baskets
Presented by
Sunday, June 3 • 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Create an elegant floral arrangement, for sun
or shade, in a basket to display on your front
door or inside your home. Join Aquarium lead
horticulturist Christine Bock at The Barn Nursery where
their talented staff will help you design something gorgeous
that welcomes guests to your lovely home.
Adults • Limited to 15 • $35/Member; $40/Non-Member
Rain Barrel Workshop
Presented by
Saturday, Aug. 11 • 10 a.m. - Noon
A rain barrel collects water from gutters and
stores it for future uses like watering plants and washing cars, especially during periods of drought. Go
green and convert an empty 55-gallon Coca-Cola
syrup drum into a working rain barrel by attaching
connectors during the program
with the help of experts with
Ace Hardware. Learn how to
install your rain barrel onto your
downspout at home and the
importance of practicing water
conservation. Includes a predrilled barrel and a kit with hose
adapters, spigot and basket for
trapping debris. Bring a vehicle
to accommodate a 55-gallon
rain barrel.
Adults • Limited to 20 • $25/Member;
$30/Non-Member
Location: IMAX Center Classrooms
COCA-COLA
Saturday, June 2 • 10 a.m. – Noon
REGISTER NOW online at tnaqua.org/Events or mail form on page 16 or call 423-267-FISH (3474).
Renew your Membership — anytime! Visit tnaqua.org/Membership
R I V E R WAT C H
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ADVENTURES
Introduction to Stand Up Paddle
Boarding (SUP)
Saturday, June 2 • 10 a.m. – Noon
Here’s your chance to experience one of America’s fastest
growing water sports — Stand Up
Paddle Boarding (SUP). It’s fun,
easy and almost like walking on
water. Learn the basics including
how to mount your board, paddle, stay upright and negotiate a turn. We will paddle downtown on the Tennessee River around Maclellan Island, stopping mid-way to explore a small beach. Includes instructors
with L2 Paddleboard, all equipment and an Aquarium naturalist.
Adults and ages 12 and older (children must be accompanied by an adult)
Limited to 8 • $40/Member; $45/Non-Member
Father’s Day Family Canoe Trip
North Chickamauga Creek
Presented by
Sunday, June 17 • 4 - 6 p.m.
Get up close and personal with creek critters as you float the pastoral waters of the
North Chickamauga Creek in canoes and then paddle into the
faster current of the Tennessee River. All equipment and transport are provided. Please bring your own picnic dinner to eat
after the paddle if desired. Meet at Greenway Farm.
Touring Kayak Clinic
Sunday, June 24 • 1 - 3 p.m.
Learn kayaking basics from the experienced guides of Outdoor
Chattanooga. Proper paddling techniques, how to adjust, enter and exit
a boat, safety guidelines and what to do if you turn over will all be covered. Dress in clothing that may get wet and bring dry ones in case you
want to experience a wet exit first-hand. Meet at Greenway Farm.
Adults and ages 14 and older accompanied by an adult
Limited to 12; Minimum 8 • $25/Member; $30/Non-Member
Nickajack Bat Cave Paddle by Kayak
Wednesday, July 11 & Friday, Aug. 24 • 7:00 – 10:00 p.m
Enjoy an amazing spectacle from the water, as nearly 100,000
endangered gray bats exit the Nickajack Cave. Explore the waters of
Nickajack Lake while the sun sets before the main attraction at dusk.
Includes all equipment and Outdoor Chattanooga guides. BYO snack
and drink. Meet at Nickajack Lake.
Adults and ages 12 and older accompanied by an adult
Limited to 12; Minimum 6 • $30/Member; $35/Non-Member
SUP Yoga at Tennessee River Gardens
Saturdays, June 9 & July 14 • 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.
Experience traditional yoga in a unique way — while floating on a
stable stand up paddle board! Practice postures on a tranquil lake at
Tennessee River Gardens to open your breath and quiet your mind
with the beauty of nature around you. After your session you are welcome to explore riverside trails of this private nature reserve known for
its scenic beauty. Strong core muscles for good balance are highly recommended. BYO optional drink and snack. Includes instructors with L2
Paddleboard and all equipment.
Adults • Limited to 9 • $25/Member; $30/Non-Member
Adults and ages 5 and older accompanied by an adult
Limited to 16 per session; Minimum 10 • $13/Member; $18/Non-Member
Sunset Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Downtown Chattanooga
Friday, June 22 • 7 – 9 p.m. (session II June 29 if needed)
As the sun sets, watch great blue herons come in to roost
at the Maclellan Island rookery from the vantage point of a
stand up paddle board. Early evening is typically the calmest
time on the water and a perfect time for an urban adventure
on the Tennessee River with the sun glinting on the water.
Grab a late snack and drink afterwards at one of Chattanooga’s
great downtown restaurants. Includes instructors with L2
Paddleboard and all equipment.
Adults and ages 12 and older (children must be accompanied by an adult)
Limited to 9 per session • $30/Member; $35/Non-Member
Family Canoe Trip
North Chickamauga Creek
Saturday, July 21 • 2 - 4 p.m
Get up close and personal with creek critters as you float the pastoral waters of the North Chickamauga Creek in canoes and then paddle
into the faster current of the Tennessee River. All equipment and transport
are provided. Please bring your own drink and lunch if desired. Meet at
Greenway Farm.
Adults and ages 5 and older accompanied by an adult
Limited to 16 per session; Minimum 10 • $13/Member; $18/Non-Member
REGISTER NOW online at tnaqua.org/Events or mail form on page 16 or call 423-267-FISH (3474).
12
R I V E R WAT C H
Go green and get Riverwatch online! Visit tnaqua.org/Membership/Riverwatch
Downtown Sunset
Paddle by Kayak
DISCOVER & LEARN
Date Night on the River
Friday, Aug. 3 • 6 – 9 p.m.
Adults • Limited to 12; Minimum 6 • $30/Member; $35/Non-Member
BUG CLUB
tnaqua.org/Education/BugClub.aspx
Bug Club is for kids who love learning about fascinating
multi-legged creatures. Clubs meet from 5 to 7 p.m. on
the third Thursday of each summer month and membership includes a monthly newsletter, T-shirt and field trips.
Games, snacks and experiments round out the fun.
RANDY MILAM
Tour the heart of Chattanooga during a
romantic paddle on the Tennessee River as the
sun sinks below the mountain ridges. We will
launch kayaks at Renaissance Park, adjacent to
Coolidge Park and paddle past downtown landmarks and around Maclellan Island, a beautiful
bird sanctuary where large blue herons roost at
sunset. Enjoy cheese and crackers along the way but
please BYO non-alcoholic drink. Afterwards, grab a
casual late dinner on the North Shore or downtown at
one of Chattanooga’s great restaurants. Meets at
Coolidge Park.
June – Great Bug Hunt XI • July – Dragonflies
Aug. – Life in a Lawn or a Meadow?
Ages 5-11 • $20 Member; $30 Non-Member per quarter (every 3 months) plus a one-time $15 initiation fee – Call Aquarium Educator Julia Gregory at (423) 785-4054 to register and pay. The membership department does not take registrations for Bug Club. Please alert us about any food allergies.
Butterfly Walk along the River
Family Canoe Trip
Saturday, June 9 • 10:00 a.m. - Noon
South Chickamauga Creek
With an Aquarium Naturalist
Sunday, August 26 • 2 - 4 p.m.
Explore nature and creek critters as you canoe
this new section of the South Chickamauga Creek
with your family. Kathlina Alford, Conservation
Associate with the Tennessee Aquarium
Conservation Institute (TNACI), will help you
search for fish that live in the river, great blue
herons and turtles basking on rocks along the
waterway at the newly dedicated Sterchi Farm
City Park off Harrison Pike . All equipment and a
guide are provided. Please bring your own drink,
snack or lunch if desired. Meet at Sterchi Farm
Greenway.
Spend a splendid summer morning participating in a fun butterfly count
and learn along the way. If you can’t identify a butterfly, don’t worry — beginners are encouraged! We’ll take a leisurely stroll through riverside meadows in
the beautiful Tennessee River Gorge with Bill Haley, Aquarium educator and
president of the Tennessee Valley chapter of the North American Butterfly
Association. Bill will teach you how to identify butterflies and talk about their
host plants and habitats. Add a field guide, “Butterflies and Moths” for $5.
Adults and ages 8 and older accompanied by an adult • Limited to 25
$5/ Member ($10 with field guide); $10/Non-Member ($15 with field guide)
Snorkel the Conasauga
An Aquatic Biologist Adventure
“Once in a Blue Moon”
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Friday, Aug. 31 • 7-9 p.m.
Experience the magic of paddling by moonlight on a Stand Up Paddleboard! Watch the sun
set and the full blue moon rise, casting shimmering light on the water with the twinkling lights of
downtown Chattanooga! Includes instructor-guides
with L2 Paddleboard and all equipment. BYO flashlight, glow stick or head light.
Adults and ages 12 and older (children must be accompanied by
an adult) • Limited to 9 • $35/Member; $40/Non-Member
The Conasauga State Scenic River
has crystal clear waters that make it
ideal for exploring and snorkeling.
Get nose to nose with brilliantly
colored fish as Aquarium Education
Programs Manager George Bartnik
and Kathlina Alford, Conservation
Associate with the Tennessee
Aquarium Conservation Institute (TNACI) help you to discover
the life-styles of the finned, shelled and scaly! Find out what you
can do to keep rivers and streams healthy with Cherokee National
Forest Fisheries staff. Includes use of all snorkeling equipment and wet
suits or bring your own. Underwater viewers will be provided for
children under eight. Bring your own lunch, snack and drink.
JIM HERRIG
Saturday, July 7 • 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Adults and ages 6 and older accompanied by an adult
Limited to 16; Minimum 10 • $13/Member; $18/Non-Member
Presented by
Limited to 20; Minimum 12 • Adults and ages 5 and older accompanied by an adult
$20 per person; Fee supports the Cherokee National Forest Fisheries program
REGISTER NOW online at tnaqua.org/Events or mail form on page 16 or call 423-267-FISH (3474).
Renew your Membership — anytime! Visit tnaqua.org/Membership
R I V E R WAT C H
13
TRAVEL ADVENTURES
GARY LEHMAN
GA
Contact Betty Miles for a trip brochure: ebm@tnaqua.org or 423-785-3008
Mongolia: Land of the Blue Sky
Travel with us to Mongolia to explore unspoiled and unique
locales with a Mongolian guide. You will meet nomadic peoples and
learn about their fascinating lifestyle. Explore cosmopolitan
Ulaanbaatar before venturing into “Outer Mongolia” staying in
authentic felt-lined Gers, the Mongolian equivalent of African tented
camps. Our journey takes us from the vast rolling grasslands of the
steppe and forested mountains of the north, south to the shifting
sand dunes and stunning landscapes of the arid Gobi Desert.
SScenic City Photo Safari
November 9 – 11. 2012
TODD STAILEY
Focus your lens on Chattanooga, the “Scenic City”
during an exciting weekend workshop for film or digital
photographers of all levels. Nature photographers Tom
and Pat Cory will present short lectures on how to
photograph subjects along with hands-on instruction in
the field. Begin at the Tennessee Aquarium and capture
images of sharks, jellyfish, butterflies, penguins, flowers
and fish. Snap photos of Chattanooga’s beautiful urban
riverfront. Photograph Civil War re-enactors in an
historical setting at the Chattanooga Arboretum and
Nature Center. We will wrap up on Sunday with brunch
at a private reserve after photographing streams and
waterfalls. Includes admissions, individual hands-on
instruction, box lunch, BBQ dinner, picnic brunch, snacks
and beverages.
Adults • Limited to 15 • $185/Member; $210/Non-Member
14
R I V E R WAT C H
Go green and get Riverwatch online! Visit tnaqua.org/Membership/Riverwatch
GARY LEHMAN
Aug 27 - Sept 7, 2012
SPECIAL EVENTS
Nomadic Dinner
At 212 Market Restaurant
Thursday, June 14 • 6:30 – 8 p.m.
In honor of the Aquarium’s August trip to Mongolia,
we invite you to taste the cuisine of nomadic herders who
live on the steppes in the Land of the Blue Sky. You’ll finish dinner just in time to catch great Riverbend acts!
Begin with our adaptation of Buuz — lamb pot stickers
with a ginger dipping sauce followed by Mongolian beef
stir fry with green beans & other seasonal fresh vegetables,
tossed with wheat noodles. Complete the meal with
Mongolian favorite chocolate Ul boov. This sweet is similar to a rustic funnel cake or doughnut, with vanilla bean
cream and vodka-marinated berries. Includes free reserved
parking, dinner, cooking demonstration and a glass of house
wine, tax and gratuity.
WARREN-MCCLELLAND AERIAL PHOTOS
Adults • Limited to 35 • $35/Member; $45/Non-Member
America’s Birthday Cruise
Presented by
On the Tennessee River Gorge Explorer
Tuesday, July 3 • 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Celebrate America’s birthday on one of
America’s great rivers aboard our exciting
high-speed catamaran that will whisk you into the heart of
the “Grand Canyon of Tennessee.” From turtles to osprey,
an Aquarium naturalist will talk about the All-American
animals found on the river with a special close-up critter
encounter! Deep inside the river gorge, step outside onto
viewing decks and immerse yourself in the scenic beauty as
the sun begins its descent. Continue the adventure by
watching the Pops on the River fireworks show at Ross’s
Landing or on the Aquarium “patio” with complimentary
3-D glasses and a snack pack. Cash bar with wine, beer,
soft drinks and snacks available during the cruise.
All Ages • Limited to 68 • Adult: $28/Member; $33/Non-Member
Child: $22/Member (age 0-12); $26//Non-Member (age 3-12);
$22/Non-Member (age 0-2)
Serve & Protect is the Tennessee Aquarium’s sustainable seafood initiative
that promotes responsible seafood choices which maintain the health
of our ocean. Please join us at these fun events with our partners.
Seafood Dinner at the Broad Street Grille
Thursday, June 21 • 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Join Executive Chef Matt Pinner and BSG restaurant Chef Andrew Millsap for a four-course tasting
menu highlighting sustainable seafood, local farms and
sustainable wines. Enjoy a cooking demonstration at
6:30 as you sample Georgia trout cakes, smoked trout
with a ‘crackling’ remoulade and American lobster roll “southern
style.” Dinner with the chefs follows with a tasting menu that will
showcase Yellow Tail Snapper and Day Boat Diver Scallops among
other selections. An aquarium expert will share information about
some of the challenges our ocean faces due to the overharvesting of
seafood. This event includes a cooking demonstration dinner, wine pairing, recipes and gratuity.
Adults • Limited to 30 • $45/Member; $55//Non-Member
Seafood Dinner at Blue Water Grille
Tuesday, July 17 • 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Join Blue Water Grille’s Executive Chef Scott
Eiselstein who will prepare a multi-course dinner
to delight the senses that features delicious seasonal U.S. caught or
raised seafood paired with Mary Hill wines. A native Chattanoogan,
Chef Eiselstein, who has 18 years in the culinary arts, will interact
with diners after each course and share recipes from this fresh
from-scratch menu. This event includes dinner, wine pairings, recipes
and gratuity.
Adults • Limited to 35 • $45/Member; $55/Non-Member
Sustainable Seafood Dinner at Hennen’s
Thursday, Aug. 23 * 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Executive Chef Matt Marcus may be
new to Chattanooga, but he is not new to
preparing innovative fresh seafood. Join Chef Marcus at Hennen’s,
winner of the 2011 City Scope Readers Choice award in the Best
Specific Foods category. This special night out at Hennen’s will feature
a multi-course menu of fresh-caught sustainable seafood paired with a
wine to complement each course. This event includes dinner, wine pairings, recipes and gratuity.
Adults • Limited to 35 • $45/Member; $55/Non-Member
REGISTER NOW online at tnaqua.org/Events or mail form on page 16 or call 423-267-FISH (3474).
Renew your Membership — anytime! Visit tnaqua.org/Membership
R I V E R WAT C H
15
Big impact. Bold future. Giant new exhibit.
And here’s one more reason to celebrate — streamlined benefits for contributing members!
In celebration of the Aquarium’s 20th anniversary, we have made some changes that reflect our commitment to
be the most responsible stewards of our members’ generosity. Our donors share in our mission to inspire wonder,
appreciation and protection of water and all life that is sustains, so we are excited to offer more ways for you to get
involved. The changes outlined below underscore the charitable relationship contributing members have with the
Aquarium as we strive to provide the best possible experience for all of our members.
Charitable contributions to the Aquarium play an important role in advancing our environmental, educational
and economic impact on our community. The following annual benefits and privileges are our way of thanking
you for your generosity.
ANNUAL CONTRIBUTING MEMBERSHIP LEVELS
LEVEL
TAX-DEDUCTIBLE CONTRIBUTION AMOUNT
Unlimited entry to River Journey & Ocean Journey
Unlimited entry* to IMAX®3D Theater (Limit 2 adults/4 children per visit)
Priority invitations to previews of IMAX® movies and exhibits
Recognition in Annual Report and Riverwatch
All benefits included in Family & Guest Membership
Invitation to exclusive state-of-the-Aquarium event
Invitations to exclusive backstage tours
Advance registration for summer camps
Recognition on River Journey Donor Wall
Priority invitations to River Gorge Explorer events
Priority registration for Serve & Protect event
Unlimited access to River Gorge Explorer (Advance Registration Required)
5 Parking Tokens to redeem in Aquarium Way Parking Lot
Discount on Facility Rental — 20% off base rental
Transferrable VIP Guest Card
Private Aquarium Tour for 10 (With Advance Arrangement)
Sustainer
$5,000+
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Guardian Conservationist
$2,500-4,999
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$1,000-2,499
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Curator Aquarist
$500-999
$250-499
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*Excludes feature-length films
ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP LEVELS
LEVEL
MEMBERSHIP FEE
Family & Guest
Family
$155
$115
$85
2 adults+kids
2 people
Unlimited entry to River Journey & Ocean Journey
2 adults+kids+1guest
Discounts on IMAX® tickets
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Discounts on River Gorge Explorer tickets
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Discounts on Backstage Passes (Behind-the-Scenes Tours)
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Discounts on Member Night guest passes
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Priority Admission — Members’ Entrance
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Discounts: Gift shop, Concessions, for Member guests and at Peer Institutions
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Subscription to Member publications
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Invitations to Member events
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Individual Plus
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RENEW ONLINE — ANYTIME! Visit tnaqua.org
16
R I V E R WAT C H
Go green and get Riverwatch online! Visit tnaqua.org/Membership/Riverwatch
C E L E B R AT E 2 0
Celebrate 20 Annual Fund
A
recent college graduate donates a modest sum,
because he knows that playful otters need toys for
enrichment. A six-year-old asks for cash instead of
presents because her birthday wish is to protect sea turtles
like Oscar. A mother from Virginia makes a contribution
online, because the best experiences to her are those that
connect children to nature. And hundreds of other donors
give to the Tennessee Aquarium, because…there’s something about our work that matters to them.
To you, that something might be the survival of
threatened animals, earning us recognition from the
Association of Zoos and Aquariums year after year.
Maybe it’s the fact that we’re the only aquarium in the
nation to be accredited as a supplementary education
school, offering unparalleled educational opportunities to
children from all walks of life. Or maybe, to you, it’s the
77 million dollars in economic impact the Aquarium
brings each year to our community. Whatever the
something that matters most to you, it is an essential part
of the Aquarium, made possible by philanthropic support.
Indeed, the Aquarium’s success has always been buoyed
by thoughtful contributions from our broad community.
Thousands of memberships and millions of admissions
tickets have kept our tanks filled for the last 20 years, but
additional charitable contributions are essential to help the
Aquarium offer those “special somethings” to our community. Each small drop of support — from grant makers,
corporate partners and individuals just like you — has
combined to form a stream of contributed income that
propels our impact far beyond our walls. It’s been these
combined contributions that have helped the Aquarium
emerge as a national leader in educational excellence,
animal care, conservation impact and service to our
community. And as we celebrate our 20th anniversary,
we know that the Aquarium has much more to offer.
That’s why we’re turning to you, our loyal community,
to launch our Celebrate 20 annual fund campaign. We’re
asking everyone who values our work to contribute $20 or
more toward the Aquarium’s 20th anniversary celebration.
Generous donors have made this request even more meaningful by establishing a challenge grant, matching dollarfor-dollar all new and increased gifts to the Aquarium
during our 20th year. This means a $20 gift will effectively contribute $40 toward our work, and a $100 gift will
double to $200. The challenge offers a great way for
gifts both large and small to further the Aquarium’s impact
on our community’s educational, environmental and
economic well-being.
There has never been a better time to contribute to
something special at the Tennessee Aquarium. The annual
fund helps us offer educational opportunities to schools
facing budget cuts. It advances new initiatives, like
Serve & Protect, to help our community tackle complex
challenges in conservation. It provides for new animal
acquisitions and keeps our exhibits among the most
respected in the nation. And, it helps us attract, and
retain, the incredible people who add a personal touch
to each Aquarium visit. 
Join the Celebrate 20 campaign by making a tax-deductible contribution at community.tnaqua.org/donate.
Or you may use the enclosed reply envelope to mail a gift, upgrade your membership to a contributing level,
or give the gift of Aquarium membership to someone else. Thank you for celebrating with us!
Discover ways to support your Tennessee Aquarium at tnaqua.org/Celebrate20
R I V E R WAT C H
17
To all of our Aquarium friends and supporters,
I’d like to invite you to the Aquarium’s 20th Anniversary celebration on Saturday, April 28th.
I hope you’ll arrive early and make time to enjoy the Aquarium at a leisurely pace. If it’s your first visit in
awhile, I think you’ll be surprised by all of our recent additions like Jellies: Living Art, Ranger Rick’s Backyard
Safari, and of course, the new River Giants exhibit.
Many of our smaller exhibits will also be new to some of you. The brightly colored reef fish are like hidden
treasures waiting to be discovered in the Live Coral exhibit. The Nishigoi exhibit has a striking new Mandarin
duck, and a snowy egret’s white plumage stands out among the dense growth of the Delta Swamp. If you keep
up with our animal updates, posted each week on our website, you’re aware of how hard we work to keep our
experience fresh and exciting every time you’re here.
If you visit more often, I invite you to stroll through the Aquarium and dial into the cell phone audio tour.
Listen to Chef Alton Brown talking about sustainable seafood, our keepers describing unique aspects of our
creatures, or world-renowned artists like Dale Chihuly providing insight on their wonderful glass installations.
Interact with our experts during a penguin talk or experience a butterfly release.
After a rich experience within the Aquarium, join us for “Party at the Peaks.” We’ll celebrate the
community effort and investment that started Chattanooga’s marvelous rebirth two decades ago.
I look forward to seeing our Aquarium friends, volunteers and employees on this occasion. We have had 20
wonderful years on the riverfront. With your ongoing support, our future will be just as fun and impactful.
Charlie Arant
Tennessee Aquarium President & CEO
Party at the Peaks
Saturday, April 28th
7:00 – 9:00 pm
• Free events on the
Aquarium Plaza
• Live world music
performed by OGYA
• Street performers,
food vendors
• Chattanooga’s first
Night Market
• Laser graffiti on
the Aquarium
20th Anniversary
After Party
9:00 – 11:00 pm
• $20 per person —
River Journey building
• Includes two drink tickets
• Behind-the-scenes peek
of River Giants
• Live music and meet
and greet with National
Geographic Explorer
Zeb Hogan
18
R I V E R WAT C H
Go green and get Riverwatch online! Visit tnaqua.org/Membership/Riverwatch
I M A X 3 D T H E AT E R
From the Tropics to the Arctic
T
wo giant screen adventures will thrill audiences
at IMAX® this summer — To The Arctic 3D and
The Last Reef 3D. While both films feature
stunning scenes of wildlife, they lead viewers in opposite
directions to tell their respective stories.
The Last Reef 3D takes audiences on a global journey
to explore ‘cities beneath the sea.’ To do so, filmmakers
needed a revolutionary camera system to tell a big story
from a tiny perspective. So a new macro 3D camera rig
was developed to show people how the oceanic food chain
is connected to reefs. “Underwater macro photography in
3D is something that’s never really been seen in any
format, let alone on the giant screen,” said co-director
Steve McNicholas. “It’s the perfect tool to truly immerse
viewers in these ‘alien’ worlds that are as vital to our
existence as the rainforests.”
Audiences are rewarded with crystal clear images of
incredibly colored animals from crocodile fish to
Christmas tree worms and iridescent corals. At one point
the camera floats magically through a cloud of one million
jellyfish. They appear to fill the theater. While surrounded by this dazzling array of sea creatures, viewers are
reminded that the balance of life is at risk. By shining a
light on threats such as ocean acidification, the filmmakers
hope to inspire thoughtful actions that could spare these
amazing cities from becoming ghost towns.
To The Arctic 3D uses the high-impact of IMAX 3D
technology to fill the theater with sweeping vistas of
colossal wilderness. From Norway to Canada and Alaska,
filmmakers Greg and Shaun MacGillivray captured a
cornucopia of Arctic wildlife and pristine glacial landscapes. “The Arctic is home to polar bears, caribou,
seals, whales and is the breeding ground for more than 30
species of seabirds, including the comical guillemot, better
known as the penguin of the Arctic,” said producer Shaun
MacGillivray.
A phenomenal migration of 15,000 caribou was also
filmed in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Beneath
the icy waters, the camera reveals brilliantly-hued sea
anemones and playful walruses. But polar bears, Ursus
maritimus, stand above the others in To The Arctic 3D.
The production team followed a mother polar bear and
her two cubs for nearly a week. With 24 hours of daylight
to work with, this led to unprecedented access to this family’s life. In a land of snow and ice, a heart-warming tale
emerged. “This mother’s struggle to raise her family is now
the emotional center to our story,” said MacGillivray. “In a
way, the movie is now a tribute to mothers everywhere.” 
Discover ways to support your Tennessee Aquarium at tnaqua.org/Celebrate20
R I V E R WAT C H
19
RIVERCURRENTS
Kuhajda Joins TNACI
Dr. Bernie Kuhajda will join the Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute, TNACI, staff as the newest scientist in May. “I’m
thrilled to have Bernie join our staff because of his knowledge of
field techniques and museum practices,” said Dr. Anna George,
director of the Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute. “With
his help, we plan to start the Freshwater Information Network.
This interactive database will combine historical and recent
survey data with photo archives to provide biologists with a
way to share the best and most recent scientific information on
freshwater animals.”
Dr. Kuhajda is joining TNACI after 25 years at the University
of Alabama, where he has managed a museum collection of one
million specimens of preserved fishes from all around the world.
Though his studies of fishes and other aquatic organisms have
taken him around the United States, Mexico, and Central Asia,
his particular expertise is surveying and monitoring endangered
species from aquatic systems in the Southeast. “Over the last 20
years we have come to understand the habitats and distributions
of many imperiled fishes, but we are continually surprised by
finding species where current knowledge indicates they should
not be found or where they are supposed to no longer exist,” said
Dr. Kuhajda. These surveys are an important part of the work he
will bring to TNACI because they help evaluate the need and
effectiveness of conservation programs. 
World Ocean Day
June 8th
noaa.gov/ocean.html
20
R I V E R WAT C H
Dr. Bernie Kuhajda
Aquarium visitors have a unique opportunity to
explore our saltwater connections on World Ocean
Day Friday, June 8th. Guests can get acquainted
with seahorses and then learn about urchins, sea
stars and horseshoe crabs in Ranger Rick’s Backyard Safari. Touch a stingray before learning about
coral, octopus, cuttlefish and jellies in the Ocean
Journey building. Then chat with SCUBA divers or
penguin keepers to discover fun facts about the
amazing sea creatures that live between the tropics and the sub-Antarctic. Venture across the street
to IMAX® where To The Arctic 3D will transport you
to the North Pole to meet polar bears, walruses
and caribou. Or dive into The Last Reef 3D where
you’re encouraged to slow down and look closely
at coral reefs, the cities beneath the sea. This
brand new giant screen film will make you want to
go back to Ocean Journey for a second, closer look
at the Secret Reef and Live Coral exhibits.
Go green and get Riverwatch online! Visit tnaqua.org/Membership/Riverwatch
Bend Unplugged
June 13th
riverbendfestival.com/pages/bend-unplugged
Stop by the River Journey Auditorium on your way to Riverbend Wednesday, June 13th for a special hour-long
‘Bend Unplugged’ performance starting at 5 p.m. The Royal Southern Brotherhood will pay soulful tribute to the
wetlands of coastal Louisiana. This all-star group features rockers Devon Allman and Mike Zito, two musicians
dedicated to the preservation of the fragile bayou ecosystem. The Royal Southern Brotherhood is self-described
as ‘Amplified Soul for a New Generation.’ Their Chattanooga visit comes as their debut CD heads to the top of
the charts after a May 8th release. Outreach performances, like this one at the Tennessee Aquarium, give people a
chance to meet the artists, savor their musical gumbo and ask questions before the musicians hit the larger stages
at Riverbend. This will be an exciting night for Riverbend fans. The Royal Southern Brotherhood will have special
guests Waylon Thibbodeaux, Johnny Sansone and Big Chief Monk Boudreaux on the Unum stage at 9:15 p.m. 
Youth Volunteer Drive
Do you know a young person who would enjoy
interacting with our guests and sharing information
about nature? Right now we’re looking for energetic youth
volunteers to assist the Aquarium’s education department.
Youth volunteers are stationed in our galleries to interpret
exhibits by engaging guests with information about the
habitats, animals and plants of the Tennessee Aquarium.
Fifteen students will be chosen to participate in the high
school volunteer program.
• Applicants must be high school students between the
ages of 14-17 years old who have completed at least one
year of high school science and be able to volunteer for
ONE calendar year.
• Volunteers must work two shifts per month to remain
active in the program.
• Applications are due no later than Friday, April 20, 2012
at 5:00 p.m. and notification letters will be mailed the
week of April 30, 2012.
One mandatory training class will be held on Saturday,
May 12, 2012 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. 
Discover ways to support your Tennessee Aquarium at tnaqua.org/Celebrate20
R I V E R WAT C H
21
CONTENT PROVIDED BY THE TENNESSEE AQUARIUM EDUCATION DEPARTMENT — AND YOU!
SEND YOUR SILLY ANIMAL JOKES AND “HOW DO THEY DO THAT” QUESTIONS TO JAL@TNAQUA.ORG.
FEATURE CREATURE
MAKE A
RIVER GIANTS
WIND SOCK
REDTAIL CATFISH
Phractocephalus hemioliopterus
Swimming in South America you just might find
a catfish with whiskers quite long and divine.
This ravenous predator eats what he wishes
while munching on fruit, insects and small fishes.
A bit of advice that you shouldn’t ignore
please don’t take one home when you leave the pet store.
This giant in nature with flashing red tail
starts off very small but in time is a whale!
They can weigh many pounds, as much as a hundred,
and four feet in length no surprise they are wondered.
Check out River Giants, where they are a feature
and see for yourself this incredible creature.
TODD STAILEY
MATERIALS:
• Light weight material
• Fabric glue or a needle and thread
• A wire circle (use a wire hanger)
• Paint, glitter, sequins, etc.
DIRECTIONS:
1. Trace a fish outline on your
material and cut it out.
2. Decorate it with sequins, glitter,
stickers or whatever makes
you happy!
3. Glue the two sides together
and glue the mouth around
a wire circle.
VARIATIONS:
Make a slightly larger one out of
light-weight fabric and attach it to
your bicycle handle bars. You can
still assemble it with fabric glue if
you don’t want to sew. If you want
one to soar from your flagpole or
car antennae, use nylon flag fabric
and sew it together.
The above example is suitable for flying in front
of a fan or air conditioning vent.
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R I V E R WAT C H
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SILLY ANIMAL JOKES...Where do Incatfish
the river bank!
RIVER
GIANTS
WORD
FIND
ALLIGATOR GAR
ARAPAIMA
BARRAMUNDI
BELUGA STURGEON
BLUE CATFISH
FRESHWATER WHIPRAY
GIANT PANGASIUS
CATFISH
GIANT GOURAMI
LAKE STURGEON
MARBLED EEL
MUSTAJUOVAMONNI
REDTAIL CATFISH
RIPSAW CATFISH
SUTCHI CATFISH
WALLAGO
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HOW DO THEY DO THAT?
Discover ways to support your Tennessee Aquarium at tnaqua.org/Celebrate20
JIM GARIN
How does an alligator gar breathe out of the water?
An alligator gar is a large freshwater fish. They breathe by using
gills to get oxygen out of the water. However, there may not be
enough oxygen in the rivers where alligator gars are found.
The alligator gar is able to gulp air from the surface by
using a specially adapted organ called a swim bladder.
It holds air, which helps a fish remain at a constant depth
in the water. Without a swim bladder, fish would have to use
more energy in order to remain in place. Gar can use oxygen
stored in this internal air tank when needed. Although the
alligator gar breathes mostly by using its gills in the water, it
can even survive completely out of the water for a few hours,
if necessary, by using oxygen in the swim bladder.
R I V E R WAT C H
23
TENNESSEE AQUARIUM
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P.O. Box 11048
Chattanooga, TN 37401-2048
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Organization
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VISION
The Tennessee Aquarium envisions a world
that values all aquatic environments.
RIVERWATCH EDITOR
Thom Benson
riverwatcheditor@tnaqua.org
EVENTS EDITOR
Betty Miles
EDITORIAL BOARD
Jessica Abbott
Loribeth Aldrich
Lisa Garey Brown
Chris Dortch
Dr. Anna George
Carol Haley
John Kelley
Jennifer Latour
Tom Lee
Mara-Lynne Payne
Julie Piper
Judy Powell
Janie Shipley
Cindy Todd
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Karen Estes
PHOTOGRAPHER
Todd Stailey
Riverwatch is published quarterly by the Tennessee Aquarium.
Written material may not be reproduced without proper credit.
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TIME-SENSITIVE MATERIAL
Chattanooga, TN
PERMIT #989