Mote Marine opens new interactive coral reef exhibit for kids

Mike Lang, Sarasota Herald-Tribune
Mote Marine's new Mystery Reef exhibit sends kids on a scavenger hunt to gather clues about what is hurting coral reefs. Guests can whack invasive species like the lionfish, left, enter a giant inflatable coral, center, and learn how to revive overheated corals, right.
Mote Marine's new Mystery Reef exhibit sends kids on a scavenger hunt to gather clues about what is hurting coral reefs. Guests can whack invasive species like the lionfish, left, enter a giant inflatable coral, center, and learn how to revive overheated corals, right.

Mote Marine Laboratory has opened a new, interactive exhibit designed to allow kids channel their inner marine scientist. The Mystery Reef exhibit will challenge participants to become coral detectives and figure out what's hurting corals and how to help them. Guests will also learn about Mote's coral restoration efforts. The new exhibit is in Mote's WAVE Center and is included in regular admission.

Guests will try to match coral colors with an air maze designed to explain coral reproduction.
Guests will try to match coral colors with an air maze designed to explain coral reproduction.
A giant inflatable coral includes a soft play area.
A giant inflatable coral includes a soft play area.
Mote Marine's new Mystery Reef exhibit sends kids on a scavenger hunt to gather clues about what is hurting coral reefs. Exhibits explain threats to coral reefs from rising water temperature and invasive species.
Mote Marine's new Mystery Reef exhibit sends kids on a scavenger hunt to gather clues about what is hurting coral reefs. Exhibits explain threats to coral reefs from rising water temperature and invasive species.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Mote Marine opens new Mystery Reef interactive exhibit for kids