summer 2012 - Tennessee Aquarium
Transcription
summer 2012 - Tennessee Aquarium
T E N N E S S E E A Q U A R I U M 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.” 2 R I V E R WAT C H Go green and get Riverwatch online! Visit tnaqua.org/Membership/Riverwatch 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 Discover ways to support Tennessee Valley conservation at www.tnaqua.org R I V E R WAT C H 3 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 4 R I V E R WAT C H 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 Go green and get Riverwatch online! Visit tnaqua.org/Membership/Riverwatch 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 5 1 FROM SEED TO FOREST The Aquarium generated tremendous growth in downtown development 2 COMMUNITY IMPACT The Tennessee Aquarium is nationally recognized for community service 3 #1 IN THE NATION We are the highest rated aquarium in the nation for guest satisfaction 4 SHARKS ON THE RIVER Ocean Journey gets you face to face with steely-eyed sharks 5 BEYOND IMAGINATION... Tennessee Aquarium Members are our best ambassadors! Thank you! 6 R I V E R WAT C H TURTLE CENTRAL 6 We are home to more turtle species than any other zoo or aquarium in the nation Go green and get Riverwatch online! Visit tnaqua.org/Membership/Riverwatch 7 POWERED BY PEOPLE 600 volunteers and 200 staff make the Aquarium a world-class experience 8 CONSERVATION LEADERSHIP We are the only Aquarium honored for our work to protect freshwater habitats 9 PLAYS WELL WITH OTHERS The Aquarium is honored as a national example for collaborative partnerships 10 AWARD-WINNING These organizations and more have nationally recognized the Aquarium for excellence 11 PENGUINS’ ROCK Macaronis and gentoos waddle, swim, dive and thrill online and on exhibit! 12 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 7 13 EXTENDING OUR REACH Educational outreach programs and field conservation work expand the Aquarium’s impact 14 RE-EMERGIN’ STURGEON Saving sturgeon from the brink of extinction in our local ecosystem 16 15 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 18 INSPIRATION TAKES FLIGHT 17 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 20 19 8 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. T 3 10 17 24 4 11 18 25 5 12 19 26 6 13 20 27 7 14 21 28 F 1 8 15 22 29 S 2 9 16 23 30 TIME AGES DESCRIPTION A & 12+ Introduction to SUP, Stand Up Paddle Board 12 2 Sat. 10 a.m.-Noon Adults Backyard Organic Gardening 11 2 Sat. 10 a.m.-Noon 5-8 What’s in Garden Dirt? 11 3 Sun. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Adults Front Door Flower Basket Workshop 11 7 Thurs. 6-9 p.m. Adults Picture the Aquarium 11 9 Sat. 8:30-9:30 a.m. Adults SUP Yoga at Tennessee River Gardens 12 9 Sat. 10 a.m.-Noon All Butterfly Walk along the River 13 14 Thurs. 6:30-8 p.m. Adults Nomadic Dinner at 212 Market Restaurant 15 17 Sun. 4-6 p.m. A & 5+ Father’s Day Family Canoe Trip 12 21 Thurs. 6:30-8:30 Adults Broad Street Grille Seafood Dinner 15 22 Fri. 7-9 p.m. A & 12+ Sunset SUP Downtown 12 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 12 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 W 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. T Sat. 24 Friday, Aug. 3 • 6 – 8:30 p.m. M 2 23-24 Shark Fest at Ocean Journey S 3 3-4 S 1 8 15 22 29 M 2 9 16 23 30 PG. T 3 10 17 24 31 W 4 11 18 25 T 5 12 19 26 F 6 13 20 27 S 7 14 21 28 TIME AGES DESCRIPTION Tues. 6 - 9 p.m. All America’s Birthday Cruise PG. 15 Tues.-Wed. 5:30 p.m.-8:30 a.m. A & 6+ July 4th Sleep in the Deep 10 7 Sat. 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. A & 5+ Snorkel the Conasauga Adventure 13 11 Wed. 7-10 p.m. A & 12 Bat Cave Kayak Trip 12 14 Sat. 8:30-9:30 a.m. Adults SUP Yoga at Tennessee River Gardens 12 17 Tues. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Adults Blue Water Grille Seafood Dinner 15 21 Sat. 2-4 p.m. A & 5+ Family Canoe Trip – North Chick AUGUST DATE DAY S M T 5 12 19 26 6 13 20 27 7 14 21 28 W 1 8 15 22 29 T 2 9 16 23 30 TIME AGES DESCRIPTION 3 Fri. 6-8:30 p.m. All Shark Fest Member Night 3 Fri. 6-9 p.m. Adults Downtown Sunset Paddle by Kayak 12 F 3 10 17 24 31 S 4 11 18 25 PG. 9 13 11 Sat. 10 a.m.-Noon Adults Rainbarrel Workshop 11 18 Sat. 9 – 11 a.m. A & Tots Trekking with Tykes Backyard Safari 10 23 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 26 Sun. 2-4 p.m. A & 6+ Family Canoe Trip-South Chick 13 31 Fri. 7-9 p.m. A & 12+ “Once in a Blue Moon” SUP 13 Renew your Membership — anytime! Visit tnaqua.org/Membership R I V E R WAT C H 9 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). 10 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 11 R O O D T OU 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+ Guardian Conservationist $2,500-4,999 $1,000-2,499 Curator Aquarist $500-999 $250-499 *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 Discounts on River Gorge Explorer tickets Discounts on Backstage Passes (Behind-the-Scenes Tours) Discounts on Member Night guest passes Priority Admission — Members’ Entrance Discounts: Gift shop, Concessions, for Member guests and at Peer Institutions Subscription to Member publications Invitations to Member events Individual Plus 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. 22 R I V E R WAT C H Go green and get Riverwatch online! Visit tnaqua.org/Membership/Riverwatch keep their money? 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 N V F G A T G P Y D G H E E T M K H A G I Y I V W T Y Z S N L F Q N S W I S E X N Q Z L N C L X I U I Q R S I A A I U G O I P F Q M E B F C I K U E F L N A V T R I P S A W C A T F I S H Y T L T O R E C U B D L I R H I A M A A P L E A V H T L D Q S N C O R B L M C G A E N G P Z I S G B K E N X K L L L O N L D R A B C A C O O U T H O I I I E G M M U W U I Q A G V J L L H X U V B E T C A Y T A S C A E F B Q S A G F L C V J J T K D G I V B H N E K M E Q A I E M U G O S E D U X E O S B K L X B L B S I M A R U O G T N A I U O V O U I R J U R I Z A G M A H A D N K N G N T M G T K W W S G H F W G P M Z C O I U Q E E J J E L C J X W A I Z Y A R P I H W R E T A W H S E R F R B K R T E K D P H M U E I F T H U E S V J G Q F X Q E U V Y C S M C T V S E I H P X A I X G W Y A F Z N Q N B U U R U V R M O S B A R A M U N D O X U U O T M A H I B N P Q W Y Y H U O L D W O G R I T I I L E 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 One Broad Street P.O. Box 11048 Chattanooga, TN 37401-2048 Non-Profit Organization US POSTAGE PAID The Tennessee Aquarium is a non-profit institution. Your dollars support our many education, conservation and research programs. Visit www.tnaqua.org for more information. Join us on Facebook and Twitter. 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. The logo, the name Tennessee Aquarium and Riverwatch are registered trademarks of the Tennessee Aquarium. IMAX® & IMAX®3D are registered trademarks of Imax Corporation, Mississauga, Canada. The Tennessee Aquarium is open daily from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., except for Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day. Official sponsor of the Tennessee Aquarium Membership Program. ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED TIME-SENSITIVE MATERIAL Chattanooga, TN PERMIT #989