Each year, nearly 400,000 visitors explore Mote Aquarium’s extensive exhibits that feature over 100
aquatic species, sea turtle, dolphin and manatee exhibits, touch pools and a 135,000-gallon shark habitat. Behind the scenes lies a complex organization dedicated to advancing the science of the sea through research, education and public outreach. Seven research centers reveal discoveries in aquaculture R&D, coastal ecology, coral reef research, ecotoxicology, fisheries enhancement, as well as marine mammal, sea turtle and shark research. A global leader in marine science, Mote is comprised of a 250-member staff with 40 doctoral-level scientists and 1,400 highly trained volunteers.

Dr. Eugenie Clark, known as the “shark lady,” founded Mote in 1955. Now a trustee emeritus, she continues research in Mote’s congressionally designated national Center for Shark Research. The world’s longest running study of wild dolphins, a partnership between Mote and the Chicago Zoological Society, has studied five generations of bottlenose dolphins in Sarasota Bay. Two rehabilitation hospitals care for dolphins, whales and sea turtles, and a 24-hour-per-day response team stands ready to rescue stranded animals.

Mote’s education division incorporates the newest technology and research-based content to create interactive learning experiences. The Center for Distance Learning reaches 25,000 students annually through SeaTrek, a video conference-based program. School workshops, field trips and family programs promote life-long learning by inspiring and connecting people to the sea.

Incorporating science, education and the aquarium, Mote Marine Laboratory invites the world to share the adventure of exploration … an endeavor that will ultimately lead to improved stewardship and the sustainability of our oceans.

Pictured, from left: Dan Bebak, Vice President, Mote’s Aquarium Division; Dr. Kumar Mahadevan, Mote President and CEO; Dr. David Niebuhr, Vice President, Mote’s Education Division

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium
1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236
T: 941.388.4441 F: 941.388.4312
www.mote.org