National Aquarium

Pistachio ice cream may be off the menu in these cooler temperatures, but pistachio tides are not. Cool nighttime temperatures bring sulfur bacteria living on the bottom of the harbor to the surface, a phenomenon known as thermal inversion. The reaction results in green-colored water, which is why this event is commonly known as a “pistachio tide.” On top of this, the harbor has been experiencing a mahogany tide in recent days. Mahogany tides are a type of algae bloom that causes the water’s dissolved oxygen levels to plummet. This can lead to die-offs of animals like small fish and blue crabs. Here at the Aquarium, aquatic animals have taken refuge in Harbor Wetland’s shallow channel, which hosts an aeration system. These aerators help increase localized dissolved oxygen levels during negative water quality events. Aquarium staff have reported seeing an uptick in animals in the channel since the arrival of the pistachio and mahogany tides. Learn more about how these water quality events affect wildlife: https://bit.ly/3XfTIyK

Look back at the incredible construction of National Aquarium Harbor Wetland presented by CFG Bank, our 10,000-foot floating wetland. 💚 Learn more about our newest exhibit: https://bit.ly/3Mw8P2i

On August 11, the Aquarium and five other community partners joined Templo de Alabanza y Restauracion (TAYR) members at Patapsco State Park to celebrate the Latino community's conservation work with a hike, games, information booths and lots of food! #LatinoConservationWeek is September 14 to 22. Find an event near you: https://bit.ly/3zvWgf0

The cordgrass on our Harbor Wetland exhibit provides more than just habitat for native species—its roots also absorb excess nitrogen directly from the water in the Inner Harbor. 🌾 Download our latest wallpaper and keep this calming cordgrass in view: https://bit.ly/4fYV6i2

We asked staff to share the unique stories behind their nature-inspired ink! Conservation Coordinator Grace Siu tells us about her crocodile tattoo 🐊 : "My tattoo is affectionately named ‘Crocodile Rock,’ and it pays homage to my love for Elton John. His music was a staple for me growing up, and this tattoo helps me feel connected to my family because it reminds me of singing along to Elton John on long road trips. I also love this tattoo because the American crocodile is an indicator species; they reflect ecosystem responses to habitat restoration because they are very sensitive to factors like hydrology and salinity. Crocodiles can teach us a lot about the health of an entire ecosystem! As conservation coordinator, my job revolves around habitat restoration and involving community members in conservation. While working at the Aquarium, I get to interact with people from all over the Chesapeake Bay watershed and hear why protecting the environment is important to them. It's so nice to talk to our community about the amazing conservation work the Aquarium does and how we can make a difference together." This is the third installment of our running tattoo series, inspired by the Seattle Aquarium social series of the same name! Be sure to check back for more ink-credible tattoos. 🖋️ Artist: Logan McCracken (@brattytattoos on IG)

The Waterfront Park outside the Aquarium is a microcosm of the biodiversity found all over Maryland. 🌸 Learn how to identify some Maryland species, and then come and practice your identifying skills at the Waterfront Park: https://bit.ly/3YNbHit

Dental hygiene isn't just for teeth! At the Aquarium, animals with beaks, bills and teeth-like structures all take trips to the dentist, especially as they age. 🏥 Learn more about oral care for animals: https://bit.ly/4cnv9pm

Did you know that 10% of Maryland is categorized as wetland? 🌾 Download our newest wallpaper to bring this sweeping landscape to your phone or laptop: https://bit.ly/4cmjLdq

Last month, we celebrated Voyages: Chapter 5, the latest installment in our after-hours event series for adults. Our featured artist, Schaun Champion, brought the theme of interconnectedness to life through stunning photography, captivating videos and floral sculptures. WombWork Productions guided guests through the immersive experience, and the night ended with a delightful blend of food, drinks and a jazz performance by Brandon Woody and UPENDO. 🌺 Sign up for our Voyages Newsletter to be the first to know when tickets go on sale for Chapter 6, with featured artist Dan Deacon: https://bit.ly/3qhl4rx

F is for frogfish! Who's getting ready for the upcoming school year? Whether your student is learning their letters for the first time or preparing to study science in college, Oceans A to Z has enrichment for everyone, even parents! 📖 🍎 ✏️ Make learning a family affair: https://bit.ly/4df5mAS