The Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium in Sarasota, Florida, USA

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The Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium in Sarasota unites over 200 scientists, explorers and stewards of the ocean. The aquarium is an independent marine research institution, committed to the idea of conservation and sustainable use of oceans, with a focus on research and education.

Visitors of the aquarium in Sarasota can see the following exhibits:

- Otters & Their Waters,

- Shark Zone,

- Creatures from the Reef,

- Florida Bay Habitats,

- Sea Turtles: Ancient Survivors,

- Manatees,

- From the Rivers to the Seas,

- Oh Baby! Life Cycles of the Sea,

- Exploration Gallery,

- Fossil Creek.

Mote’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Hospital has treated more than 450 sea turtle patients since 1995.

The Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium includes the following facilities:

- in Sarasota - a 10.5-acre Base Campus and Aquarium, an Aquaculture Campus;

- in Key West - a Field Station and Public Exhibit;

- in Summerland Key - a Field Station;
- in Boca Grande - an Outreach Office.

Originally focused on sharks, the aquarium's research has expanded to include studies of human cancer using marine models, the effects of man-made and natural toxins on humans and on the environment, the health of wild fisheries, developing sustainable and successful fish restocking techniques and food production technologies and the development of ocean technology. The aquarium's research programs also focus on understanding the population dynamics of manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, sharks and coral reefs, and on conservation and restoration of these species and ecosystems.

The aquarium has extensive formal and informal learning programs for kids and their families:

- Summer Camps,
- Spring Break Camps,
- Mommy & Me,
- High School Programs,
- Research-based After School Program for Students (Florida Keys).

Children under 3 get in for free. It is possible to buy tickets online at the aquarium's website.