Learn about the fish that call California Academy of Sciences Philippine Coral Reef exhibit home.
Made up of more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines is home to the world’s richest diversity of tropical marine life. The island chain supports more than 500 species of coral and 2,000 species of fish, making it a biodiversity hotspot and an important location for scientific research. This exhibit replicates some of the diversity found in this vital marine resource.
Philippines belong to the coral triangle and it’s an area with more species of fish and corals than any other marine environment on earth. According to the World Bank, 100 scientists have proclaimed that Philippines as the world’s “center of marine biodiversity” because of its immense number of species of marine and coastal resources. Its corals lie within the Coral Triangle that covers more than 75% of all coral species and 35% of the world’s coral reefs.
Unfortunately, the survival of approximately 75 percent of the world’s tropical coral reefs is currently under threat and 25 percent of Earth’s reefs have already been lost. Global warming and ocean acidification are two of the most important factors, but not the only threats. To better understand how to conserve and protect these fragile habitats, Academy scientists have begun cultivating coral donated from partnering aquariums and regional governments, as well as from clippings sustainably and legally harvested during expeditions. Some of the results of this work can be seen here in this unique 212,000-gallon exhibit.
Philippine Coral Reef exhibit
Watch and listen as Academy divers feed the creatures in the Philippine Coral Reef exhibit and answer visitor questions—daily at 11:30 am and 2:30 pm PST.
Why is it dark?
The fish may be sleeping. We dim and brighten our lights according to a schedule that best matches their natural habit. That may not correspond to the time zone where you are.