Visitors to Sea Life Brighton this half term are in for a treat as the aquarium unveils its dazzling new creature installation Sea Stars, which will open to the public on 10 February.
Featuring more than 170 sensational sea dwellers from across the world, Sea Stars is the UK’s largest celebration of the ocean’s most visually captivating, and most important creatures, the humble ‘star fish’.
Although the image of ‘star fish’ is used frequently – even featuring in the Sea Life Brighton logo – visitors should not be fooled. These creatures come in a range of different shapes, sizes and colours, and far from the traditional five-armed sea star that is easily recognisable, some can have up to 200 arms!
The breath-taking Feather Star is one such species. With its brightly coloured appearance and its many feather-like arms, this creature is one of the must-see stars of the new installation.
It will be joined by eye-catching Mediterranean Red Sea Stars, most commonly spotted in shallow waters around Cyprus and Malta; the Sun Star, which encompasses the colours of a stunning sunset; and the exotic Blue Star, all the way from the Indo-Pacific Ocean.
As well as a host of enchanting creatures, visitors to Sea Stars will have the opportunity to learn about the vital role that ‘star fish’ play in the ocean’s eco-systems and why they are often referred to as ‘keystone species’ in their habitats.
Plus, eagle-eyed visitors will find out why ‘star fish’ shouldn’t really be called ‘star fish’ at all!
Max Leviston, General Manager of Sea Life Brighton comments: “We are thrilled to be welcoming Sea Stars to Sea Life Brighton. ‘Star fish’, or echinoderms as they should technically be called, are simply stunning creatures. This installation is a chance to put their beauty front and centre – and to celebrate all of the wonderful eco-systems that Sea Stars make possible.
“I look forward to seeing our visitors entranced by the bright colours and unique quirks of the creatures in Sea Stars – I still find watching their movement fascinating!”
With creatures aplenty and a range of interactive and sensory-led activities, Sea Stars will provide education as well as fun and entertainment for visitors of all ages this February half term and beyond.
The installation will take the place of Claws, which has been a family favourite since its opening in April 2017. Visitors hoping to take one last dive into the crustacean-centric installation should visit before 16 January.
Sea Life Brighton is open from 10am every day apart from 24 and 25 December. Visitors can save up to 40% by booking in advance online. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit www.visitsealife.com/brighton or call 01273 604234.