Three new finned friends have arrived at the Newport Aquarium: a female and two male sand tiger sharks.
Their nearly seven-foot-long frames and wide toothy grins can be seen in the Surrounded by Sharks Exhibit.
Sand tiger sharks may look a little intimidating at first glance, but they are known to be relatively docile, eating mainly fish, lobster, and some rays, according to the aquarium. They can often be found in shallow bays and inshore tropical waters and have even been spotted circling shipwrecks off the coast of the Eastern United States.
Like many sharks, rising seas, shark finning and other man-made problems are posing a threat to their existence. This threat is elevated by their lower rates of reproduction, leaving them vulnerable worldwide and critically endangered in some parts of the world.
Just like many of their tankmates, the three new sharks will play an important role as animal ambassadors for their species, making a difference at home and around the
world.
Newport Aquarium, in partnership with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), will be studying the sand tiger shark species to help contribute to global education and conservation efforts.
The aquarium and sand tiger sharks are part of AZA’s Species Survival Plan, which allows biologists to learn and share information about the animals and aid in sustainable reproduction.
“We are thrilled and humbled to care for these sharks and help scientists around the world make sure these beautiful creatures survive and thrive on earth,” said reproduction. Newport Aquarium General Curator, Kelly Sowers.
The aquarium also announced a limited-time offer where annual pass purchasers get two additional months free, meaning 14 months to visit the new sharks opposed to 12.
To submit your name suggestions, get tickets and to learn more about the two-extra-months-free offer on annual passes, head to NewportAquarium.com.
