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‘Wonder of Water’ exhibit offers immersive marine experience at Shedd Aquarium

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Published  December 19, 2024 11:16am CST
Chicago
FOX 32 Chicago

'Wonder of Water' exhibit makes waves at Shedd Aquarium

'Wonder of Water' is a new exhibit at the Shedd Aquarium, showing off creatures in two special habitats.

The Brief

    • The Shedd Aquarium’s newly reopened rotunda now features the "Wonder of Water" exhibit, showcasing live corals, lush plants, and vibrant marine life in two 28,000-gallon ecosystems. 
    • The interactive exhibit allows visitors to explore tactile features, a periscope for close-up views, and even taste the varying salt levels in the water. 
    • After two years of preparation and growth, the exhibit offers a living, evolving reef and immersive experiences to inspire awe, especially in young visitors.

CHICAGO - Shedd Aquarium’s rotunda is back open and reimagined as the "Wonder of Water" exhibit.

Visitors are greeted by live corals, lush plants and a colorful array of fish.

"We have two 28,000 gallon different ecosystems here. The freshwater rotunda, full of live plants and lots of different fish," said Noel Heinsohn, manager of saltwater habitats. "And … our 28,000 gallon Marine reef ecosystem that is all filled with live coral."

The old habitat had fake coral only.

"We’ve planted out this reef and you’re going to get to watch it evolve and grow. So we’re seeing evolution happen right in front of our eyes," Heinsohn said.

The rotunda was closed to the public for two years, but there was plenty going on behind the scenes, such as growing the plants, said Senior Aquarist Stacy Wozniak.

"I am a total plant nut and to be involved with growing them up from 1 inch little seedlings to full-size 7-, 8-foot plants is pretty rewarding," Wozniak said.

"I’m so excited to come out here every day and check out the habitats and interact with our guests and point out the little things that most people will miss if you don’t really stare at it for a long time."

Interactive features include a periscope where you can zoom in and see different animals throughout the habitats.

We have tactile features where you can touch and feel what the fish would feel like. And we also have a cart that comes around throughout the day and you can taste the different levels of salt we have throughout building," said Wozniak.

A fish lover since his youth, he said it’s very exciting to see the reactions of guests, especially children, when they see the new exhibit for the first time.

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