By Elaine Lee
The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach is launching a new Stars of the Sea experience and the Our Living Coastline touchpool exhibit from May 24, 2025, to April 30, 2026.
This new initiative focuses on the conservation of the sunflower sea star, a species now endangered due to climate change. Rising ocean temperatures and increased acidity have made sea stars more vulnerable to disease, causing a sharp decline in their populations over the years.
Sea stars play a vital role in marine ecosystems, particularly in controlling urchin populations to help preserve kelp forests, which serve as habitats for many other marine species.
In response, the Aquarium is engaged in cutting-edge research, breeding, and restoration programs for the sunflower sea star. As part of Stars of the Sea, the Aquarium features 20 exhibits highlighting various sea star habitats and showcasing over 20 species, including some with up to 26 legs. Visitors can meet species like the venomous crown-of-thorns with its 15 legs and explore ecosystems from Japan’s deep seas to the Galápagos Islands.
The newly added touchpool exhibit mimics real tidepools with rock structures and cascading water, offering a hands-on educational experience where guests can feel sea stars and learn about their ecological roles. Other immersive encounters include interactions with baby sharks and stingrays.
“We’re hoping for brighter times ahead for this keystone species,” said Nate Jaros, Vice President of Animal Care, Fish, and Invertebrates. “Through our efforts and partnerships with organizations like the Pacific Coast Ocean Restoration Initiative (PCOR), we’re making significant progress in raising and reintroducing sunflower sea stars.”
The Aquarium encourages the public to support this crucial conservation effort and witness these remarkable marine creatures up close. Reservations are required and can be made at aquariumofpacific.org.
