The best way to learn about nature is to experience it first hand. In our Discovery Center you can do just that! Filled with fun interactive displays, the Discovery Center invites you to learn by participation.
You can solve puzzles, test your knowledge against the experts and your friends, and even touch live horseshoe crabs – one of the strangest creatures in our aquarium. The best way to learn about nature is to experience is first hand. The Discovery Center is filled with interactive displays inviting you to learn by participation.
Hands On Centers
Ripley’s Aquarium provides a unique variety of educational programs on the ocean environment and marine life.
Educators are available in the building to answer questions at all times.
As well, special class times and topics for group discussions are posted at the Marine Education Center every day.
Specialized programs are also available for students, teachers and other social groups.
Horseshoe CrabsMistakenly known as a Horseshoe “crab”, it is actually not a crab, since it is related to spider, ticks, and scorpions. Lacking the ability to defend itself ...more
- Location: Indicated in orange on the map
- Habitat/Region featured: Fun Zone!
- Size: 1,800 sq/feet of hands on exhibits
- Opening date: December 2000
Fish Blogs
Grab the inside scoops, go behind the scenes, hear animal experts & more! See life at the aquarium unfold! More…
Limulus polyphemus
Mistakenly known as a Horseshoe “crab”, it is actually not a crab, since it is related to spider, ticks, and scorpions. Lacking the ability to defend itself, the Horseshoe crab is protected by its horseshoe shaped shell (known as a carapace).
The horseshoe crab is very unique since it has 10 eyes, comprised of simple photoreceptors, as well as, copper-based blue blood. The telson, or tail, is used to flip itself over if the horseshoe crab is stuck upside down. The horseshoe crab is native to shallow waters along the United States East Coast.
