Newport Aquarium just announced that Ring of Fire, an all-new immersive exhibit, will open this spring. The exhibit will highlight the mysterious creatures that make their home along The Ring of Fire where towering volcanoes and deep ocean trenches line the Pacific Ocean rim.
Guests will explore the new space filled with some of the most fascinating creatures in the ocean, the Giant Pacific Octopus, Moon Jellyfish and Japanese Spider Crabs. They will discover their amazing shape-shifting, color-changing, exoskeleton-shedding behaviors that all take place in this constantly changing ecosystem, where fire meets water.
“The ecology and the biology around the Ring of Fire is one of the most intriguing elements of the oceans,” said Eric Rose, Newport Aquarium Executive Director. “It’s fascinating how awesome Mother Nature and the ocean are to have animals that thrive in that turbulent environment.”
The new exhibit will be unlike any that has come before, complete with unique light and sound effects. Inspired by the volcanoes and earthquakes that define the Ring of Fire, guests will experience a periodic display of glowing light and rumbling sound. The fun show element is a reminder for guests of the churning seismic activity that created the rippling sea floor, caves and other rock formations where amazing creatures like the Giant Pacific Octopus live.
Ring of Fire will feature three zones within the space where guests can explore each specific species:
Giant Pacific Octopus
After witnessing the unusual characteristics of the Giant Pacific Octopus, like their ability to camouflage and change shape, guests will get to explore the Octopus Den. An arched rock portal invites guests into this cave-like new space never before accessible to the public. There, they will learn more about this highly intelligent species through videos and interactives.
Moon Jellyfish
An all-new custom built display of Moon Jellyfish will showcase hundreds of the animals as they float and flutter. The picture window display starts just inches off the ground so both little kids and grownups can take in the mesmerizing view.
Japanese Spider Crabs
The spider crabs will be featured in a cylindrical tank where guests can watch them explore their surroundings with a 360-degree view. Wall graphics showing the full size of the species will serve as a fun photo op next to a man-size crab as they can reach up to 12 feet claw to claw in the wild.
Annual Pass Deal:
Now through December 31st, Newport Aquarium is offering Annual Passes on a “Buy 3, Get 1 Free” sale. Annual Passes are valid for one year from the date of purchase, so guests can use them now to experience Water Wonderland with Scuba Santa and into next year, including a VIP Passholder-only preview party for the opening of Ring of Fire.
The new exhibit will be open by Spring Break, so the first guests will be able to explore the Ring of Fire in March 2018. To learn more about The Ring of Fire exhibit and the animals, visit NewportAquarium.com or call 800-406-FISH (3474).