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WINTER 2010 • $1.50
New views into the
SECRET
REEF
PLUS: Orchid Fever, TNACI Update and Tropical Holiday Adventure
2
R I V E R WAT C H
Go green and get Riverwatch online! Visit www.tnaqua.org/Membership/Riverwatch.aspx
The Tennessee Aquarium’s largest exhibit, the Secret Reef, offers 26 windows
for viewing animals found on the Flower
Garden Banks, one of 13 National Marine Sanctuaries. Our goal with this exhibit is to create a different view through
each window, so diversification of species
is a must. We currently display nearly
3,500 fish and one green sea turtle.
While most of these fish were initial
additions when Ocean Journey opened
in 2005, others are new residents added
this summer. Bringing in more reef fish
such as angels, butterflies and pufferfish
helps each window have a different view.
T
his past spring, the aquarist staff collaborated with
the Florida Aquarium to collect fish in the Florida
Keys for the Secret Reef exhibit. We chose to collect out of the Mote Research station on Summerland Key
because of the diversity of fish found there. Mote also
provided us with holding tanks for the fish, as well as lodging for staff. In all, we brought back more than 250 fish
representing over 30 species.
The fish were transported by truck in large oxygenated
hauling boxes and received water changes at the Florida
Aquarium in Tampa during their overnight stay. They were
then brought to the Tennessee Aquarium’s Animal Care Facility for quarantine to assess health, ensure that they were
eating and were disease free. (continued on next page)
TODD STAILEY
OCEAN JOURNEY
Want to dive in?
The Tennessee Aquarium is currently recruiting new
volunteer SCUBA divers for weekday shifts. To get started,
apply online by Friday, January 28, 2011 at:
www.tnaqua.org/GetInvolved/GetInvolved.aspx
New recruits must satisfy the following general
qualifications:
• Be at least 18 years of age and certified for SCUBA
diving by a nationally recognized organization (PADI,
NAUI, SSI, etc.) Have logged a minimum of 25 dives, 12
open water dives within the last three years.
• Fill out an official application to the Tennessee
Aquarium for volunteer diving status.
• Provide a copy of diving certification card, current first
aid and adult CPR certifications and Oxygen Provider
certificate prior to diving in the exhibits.
• Complete a written exam covering various aspects of
diving physics, physiology, equipment and safety.
• Complete an in-water skills test.
• Have a medical release from your physician.
In addition, recruits must be available for both:
• A diver orientation meeting in the River Journey
Auditorium on Thursday, February 3rd at 5:30 pm
• And a pool skills test at UTC on Saturday, February
19th beginning at 8:00 am.
THOM BENSON
Or dive in without getting wet...
Thanks to a grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), anyone can take a virtual
dip in the Secret Reef. A new, live web cam has been installed underwater near the platform where SCUBA divers
enter the exhibit. “We hope this live video feed is fun and
educational for people all over the world,” said Tim Baker,
the Aquarium’s director of education. “Like our Penguins’
Rock webcam, this technology spurs curiosity about the
animals and their habitat, leading them to search our
website and the Internet for more information.” Take a
virtual dive anytime at:
www.tnaqua.org/OurAnimals/SecretReefcam.aspx
Discover ways to support Tennessee Valley conservation at www.tnaqua.org
R I V E R WAT C H
3
About the Author: Assistant Curator of Fishes Carol Haley
coordinates the aquarist staff and works closely with education staff and volunteers. She has been with the Aquarium
since October 1991.
4
R I V E R WAT C H
Aquarist Nikki Eisenmenger gently transfers a butterfly fish from a
holding tank at the Animal Care Facility to a transport container.
This colorful reef fish is now at home in the Secret Reef.
Donor Spotlight: Alison Lebovitz
“My kids love coming to the
Aquarium… they spend the
whole time learning without
even realizing it. We know
the value, the kids have a
great time – it’s the best of
both worlds,” says Alison
Lebovitz, an Aquarium
Patron member. Alison and
her family have been members for years but recently
became Patron members
because they believe in
Alison Lebovitz and her son meet a Sabl
the enriching experiences
e
rabbit during an Animal Encounter
they have as a family at the
Aquarium. The Lebovitzes
know that their Patron membership
ership also makes engaging learning
experiences possible for others who have limited financial means.
Go green and get Riverwatch online! Visit www.tnaqua.org/Membership/Riverwatch.aspx
TODD STAILEY
Quarantine of so many types of fish requires
specialized training and veterinarian oversight.
When the fish arrive, their skin, fins and gills are
sampled to determine if they harbor any parasites.
Then they are dipped in freshwater to prevent
transmission of any “bugs” they may have brought
with them. Different medications are used during
their two month quarantine to kill any lingering
diseases. Some fish, such as puffers, are notorious for carrying parasites in their coelemic cavity
(stomach), so we have to get them to “puff” with
water so that medication can get distributed to all
the nooks and crannies. Fish are left for at least
one month in holding with no medications in the
water, which allows any unchecked disease issues
to rear their ugly heads.
Housing so many different types of fish in the
same exhibit offers many challenges for every fish
to eat and establish territories. We are fortunate
that the artificial rock work, corals and sponges
create a very naturalistic habitat that the fish acclimate to very quickly, thus reducing predator/
prey interactions. We have also recently added
more rock piles and hiding spots for smaller fish
to quickly dart into should the occasion arise.
Seafood, chopped into small pieces, is loaded into
hoppers above the tank and is distributed throughout the exhibit via 11 pipes integrated into the
tank. This allows smaller and more timid fish to
feed without having to compete with larger, more
aggressive species, such as jacks and permit, near
the surface.
In addition to new fish, we also have 18 new
volunteer divers from our 2010 winter recruitment. Most have finished their series of training
dives and are currently diving on a monthly schedule. Along with maintaining the exhibit, these
volunteers help entertain and educate our guests
during interactive dive programs.
With so many fish and so many views, our
mainly landlocked guests have an opportunity to
meet beautiful creatures they might not otherwise
come across. They also discover the variety of ways
the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary helps make life on land possible and how
inland residents can make choices at home that
help benefit the saltwater world downstream. 
ANIMAL HIGHLIGHT
T
here is a wetland in west central Brazil that is 10
times larger than the Everglades. This area, known
as the Patanal, has a warm, tropical climate with
only two seasons: wet and dry. Here cattle farmers and caimans share the same biologically diverse areas. The Patanal
is home to more than 1,000 species of reptiles, fish, mammals and birds, including hyacinth macaws.
These bright-blue parrots are the largest macaws in the
world. But that’s not the only thing that makes them remarkable. Their lives span nearly 60 years, they have superb
eyesight and hearing, and their large hooked beaks can apply
nearly 300 psi of pressure to crack open hard-shelled nuts!
The hyacinth macaws are some of the first animals you
will encounter in the Tropical Cove inside the Aquarium’s
Ocean Journey building. Though they are tropical birds,
wild hyacinths may not live the life people are led to believe.
The Tennessee Aquarium’s macaws are fed a diet of
fruit, pellets and nuts from bowls. Their home is climatecontrolled like ours, and they even take treats, such as
yogurt, from a spoon! In the wild however, hyacinth life is
quite different.
In April 2010, Kevin Calhoon, the Aquarium’s assistant curator of forests, led a member’s excursion to the
southern Patanal region of Brazil. The group stayed in two
lodges, Pousada Xaraes and Pousada Aguape. Each lodge
was located in a different habitat and altitude within the
Patanal’s diverse landscape. Calhoon was fascinated to
observe the native birds. “Hyacinth macaws in the wild live
in groups consisting of several mated pairs,” said Calhoon.
“They live on the outskirts of the forest, where they can be
near trees to perch and nest. But they also like to be close to
the cattle ranches and cottages.” Why choose this habitat?
Calhoon says the answer is two-fold. First, the majority of
a hyacinth’s diet is nuts, and the trees around the ranches
produce palm nuts. “The cattle eat the fallen nuts but can
only digest the outer shell, leaving the nut to pass through
TODD STAILEY
Hyacinths
of the Patanal
their digestive tract,” Calhoon said. “The macaws sort
through the cow feces to find the palm nuts which, by this
time, are a little easier to crack into.”
The other reason the macaws are found near people
and cattle is because of the care that people provide the
macaws. The lodges provide troughs of water for the birds
to bathe in and drink from. “Workers will also chop down
clusters of palm nuts and place them within easy reach of
the hyacinths,” Calhoon said. Hyacinth macaws are cavity
nesters, so local residents are also willing to provide homes
for the macaws. “Some areas in the Patanal are also outfitted with hand-built nest boxes to encourage nesting in
nearby trees.”
Hyacinth macaws are found only in Bolivia and Brazil,
with the majority of the estimated 6,500 living in the
Patanal. The main threat to these birds is trapping for the
pet trade industry. The Aquarium’s hyacinths were acquired
through licensed breeders, and these two females have never
lived in the wild.
Although the differences in habitat are dramatic, there
is one big similarity between wild hyacinths and ours here
at the aquarium - their self-assured attitudes. Calhoon
explained, “The hyacinths we saw were cautious around
people, never letting us get closer than 20 to 30 feet away.
Yet they would sit perched in the trees with their mate, or
they might dig through the mud for nuts, and they would
stop and pose. It was as if they were saying, ‘Here I am –
look at me’. They are divas.”
The next time you visit the hyacinth macaws at the
Tennessee Aquarium, see if they are true to the nature of
the species — gaudy, temperamental entertainers. They are
indeed divas! 
About the Author: Aviculturist Loribeth Aldrich cares for macaws,
songbirds, and penguins as well as interacting with the public in
daily penguin shows.
Discover ways to support Tennessee Valley conservation at www.tnaqua.org
R I V E R WAT C H
5
C O N S E R VA T I O N
While a day in a river is always better than a day behind a desk, most fieldwork is
still work. In August, though, we had a great field day snorkeling for Conasauga
logperch in the pristine waters of the Conasauga River in Tennessee and Georgia.
T
he Conasauga logperch, a five-inch long tigerstriped fish, is only known from a 27-mile stretch
of the mainstem river in Georgia and Tennessee.
With our partners, Conservation Fisheries, Inc. and biologists from the U.S. Forest Service, we captured 11 Conasauga logperch in a single day—a huge boost for our new
conservation program for these fish!
Eight of these logperch made a quick journey from the
river to Knoxville, where Conservation Fisheries is located.
There, they joined three other logperch that were already in
naturalized tanks as part of a breeding program. When I
visited a week later, the fish were already settling into their
new home, behaving like logperch should in their natural
habitat. They were flipping the small stones on the bottom of their tanks, trying to feed on the aquatic insects
that would be hiding beneath them in the wild. They also
darted away from us as we peeked into the tanks, avoiding these strange “predators.” Most importantly, they were
swimming together in a social group similar to what we see
in the river. We hope this means that in the spring they’ll
be ready to make baby logperch!
This program doesn’t just involve captive propagation,
though; we need to learn more about the biology of the
Conasauga logperch. One reason I love science is because
curiosity is a prerequisite. Scientists are always asking
“Why?” as they ponder the natural world. In ecology, one
of the main questions we study is why species live where
they do. Why is the closely related Mobile logperch distributed widely across the Mobile Bay drainage in Alabama,
Georgia, Mississippi and Tennessee, while the Conasauga
logperch is found only in one river? How can these very
similar species occupy nearly identical habitats in the same
stream without competition? Why has the Conasauga
logperch not gone extinct when they are only found in a
single river? Studying the answers to these questions is another part of how we’re helping to conserve the Conasauga
logperch.
With our lake sturgeon program, we’re trying to
protect a species that was formerly widespread but is now
missing from large parts of its range. But there are plenty
of animals that have always had a smaller range, like the
Conasauga logperch. Animals with smaller ranges also
typically have smaller population sizes. Small populations
are less likely to survive catastrophic events due to their
Pictured above: Dr. Anna George and other biologists move slowly in the Conasauga River to prevent stirring up sediment while searching for logperch.
6
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TOD
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Conserving Nature:
Logperch Lessons
TODD STAILEY
TODD STAILEY
size, but smaller and
more subtle changes
in the environment
can play a role in
extinctions as well.
For example, not all
individuals respond
to disease in the
same way. Some
individuals get sick
more easily, whereas
others are able to
fight it off. In a large
population, there
is a much better
chance that a few
individuals will be
able to cope with the
change. We think
it’s likely that there
Each Conasauga logperch is unique. Researchers like Dr. George wonder if that has been a key to their survival.
is something special
about the Conasauga
species of fish, which is more than you could find in most
logperch that has given them more variation between indiWestern states. Even though it’s only an hour away from
vidual fish than we might see in other species. This variaChattanooga, its waters flow south to the Gulf of Mexico
tion then helps them survive in a small range. To study
through Mobile Bay, meaning very different fish live there
this problem, we need to learn more about the differences
than you find a few miles away in the Tennessee River.
between individual Conasauga logperch.
The river isn’t just important for these fish; it is also home
One way to approach this is to look at how differences
to dozens of imperiled snails and
are created between indimussels that are found nowhere else
viduals—and that starts with
in the world.
DNA. We’re working with
One of the reasons that it’s
biologists at the University
home to all of these rare animals is
of Tennessee at Chattanooga
because it is still free-flowing; there
to sequence genes from
aren’t any reservoirs on the river that
individual logperch to see if
change what animals you find in its
there is more diversity in the
water. It also means the river is very
genes of this species. If so,
sensitive to drought. So think of the
the logperch might be using
Conasauga River every time you take
special behaviors to pick out
a shower or water your lawn. The
mates that are most different
less you use, the more you leave in
from them. It’s a lot of work,
streams for the fish and other spebut knowing more about the
cies, helping us protect our aquatic
genetic composition of these
heritage. 
fish can help us set up a captive breeding program that
About the Author: Anna George, Ph.D.,
protects the variation in the
is the director of the Tennessee Aquarium
Conasauga logperch.
Conservation Institute. Anna keeps busy
The Conasauga River
with numerous field studies and restoration
isn’t special just because of
Dr. George searches for logperch, but other rare
projects including the award-winning
these logperch. The river
species live in the Conasauga.
Saving the Sturgeon project.
is home to over 75 native
Discover ways to support Tennessee Valley conservation at www.tnaqua.org
R I V E R WAT C H
7
GUEST SPEAKER
Cold Facts About
the Antarctic
Close your eyes and imagine being cold.
Not just refrigerator or freezer cold, but
the bone-numbing, painful cold that
comes with SCUBA diving in Antarctica.
At 35 degrees Fahrenheit, it takes
special equipment to keep from freezing
to death, but a special fire in the belly to
see what’s below the sea ice keeps one
Antarctic researcher going back for more.
D
r. James McClintock, a University of Alabama at
Birmingham scientist, found a dazzling marine
community within the frigid waters that is unlocking medical miracles. In a soon-to-be released book, Goodbye Antarctica: Nature in a Disappearing Land, (Palgrave/
McMillan), McClintock describes the vibrant ecosystem he
witnessed in those icy waters more than 25 years ago. “Instead of the luxuriant kelp beds off the coast of California
or the tropical coral reefs of Caribbean islands where I had
become an experienced diver, I was floating below a six-foot
layer of annual sea ice, surrounded by the bone-chilling waters and rich diversity of sea life of McMurdo Sound. It was
1984, and this was my first dive in Antarctica. My location,
Ross Island, 2,300 miles due south of New Zealand, was as
close to the South Pole as a human being can reach and still
survive diving under the sea ice.”
“Below, peach-colored soft corals spread out amidst
cream-colored sponges coating the sea floor. Vase-shaped
sponges stood three to four feet tall. Giant marine worms
and hand–sized sea spiders added an element of Lilliputian
absurdity to the landscape. Bright-red sea urchins carpeted
the sea floor, and red and yellow sea stars nestled among
them, feeding on sponges. Among the soft sediments, fields
of clams and snails resided, while lopsided shelled brachiopods and bushy bryozoans attached to the exposed hard
surfaces. Tiny orange sea butterflies swam about, flapping
their wings, and a Weddell seal, attracted, perhaps, to the
breathing hole provided by our dive hut, approached.”
McClintock and a team of researchers are racing against
time to document life near Palmer Station, one of three
U.S. research stations located in Antarctica. According to
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R I V E R WAT C H
McClintock, the Antarctic Peninsula is the most rapidly
warming region on the planet. “Adelie penguin colonies in
the area have plummeted from 15,000 breeding pairs to
around 3,000 in just the past 30 years,” said McClintock.
“These are colonies that have been around for the past 8,000
years. Other species that live at very constant, very low temperatures will not be able to survive at even slightly warmer
temperatures.”
The stakes are high. Along with the hotly debated
climatic impacts of losing vast masses of ice, biological advances that could serve humanity in stunning ways may also
vanish. McClintock’s research team has already uncovered
two medical miracles in Antarctica.
They have discovered a chemical compound in a sea
squirt species that fights the most deadly form of skin cancer. “This compound reduces the activity of a key enzyme
that produces melanoma,” said McClintock. “It’s also very
potent. Only a small amount is needed, sparing healthy cells
from being destroyed.”
They have also found a red algae that produces a potent
compound which works against several different flu viruses.
“It prevents several different strains, such as H1N1, from
attaching to human cells,” said McClintock.
The UAB scientist recently appeared at the Tennessee
Aquarium as part of a NOAA supported ocean-themed
lecture series designed to help inland residents understand
their connection to the world ocean. While the Tennessee
Aquarium’s penguins might be as close as many visitors get
to the southern ocean, they may become inspired to view the
Earth’s polar regions as McClintock sees them — as fragile
works of art in need of preservation. “The sea ice above me
glowed, transmitting sunlight to the depths. I was drifting
as if just below the ceiling of a magnificent building whose
floor lay a hundred feet below me. I was struck by the same
sense of awe one experiences entering the Sistine Chapel,
only Michelangelo’s paintings had been replaced by a ceiling
aglow and adorned with intricate platelets of ice.” 
About the Author: Thom Benson is the Tennessee Aquarium’s communications manager. He is also the editor of Riverwatch.
Go green and get Riverwatch online! Visit www.tnaqua.org/Membership/Riverwatch.aspx
TENNESSEE
AQUARIUM
winter events
EVENTS
CALENDAR
Pre-registration is required for events!
Register online at www.tnaqua.org/Events.aspx
RIVERWATCH EVENTS is printed on New Leaf 100% post-consumer recycled paper.
Official sponsor of the Tennessee
Aquarium Membership Program.
Note: All events are held on Eastern Time
MEMBER NIGHT
REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!
DECEMBER
DATE
NEW
for
Members
Members now receive 10% off
Show Time Photos!
REGISTER NOW online at www.tnaqua.org/Events.aspx
or mail form on page 16 or call 423-267-FISH (3474).
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Sat.
10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Adults
Hiwassee Refuge by Kayak
5
Sun.
6:30-9 p.m.
All
Holiday Member Night
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18
Sat.
9:30-11 a.m.
A & 3-4
Trim the Tree, Naturally
15
27
13
Mon.
12:30-2:30 p.m.
All
Family Critter Cruise-Tails on the River
10
5:30 p.m.-8:30 a.m.
A & 6+
New Year’s Sleep in the Deep
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JANUARY
DATE
PG.
Fri.-Sat.
Caroling with the Fishes
All Ages • Free/Members and Non-Member guests using Member Night
Guest Passes (one guest per pass) • Additional Non-Member guests:
Half-price admission: $7.50/Child; $12.50/Adult
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Sunday, Dec. 5 • 6:30 - 9:00 p.m.
Carol with the fishes to the
sounds of seasonal music echoing in the galleries and
uniquely decorated trees. Music includes flutes, guitar,
strings and Dan Landrum on the hammered dulcimer.
Children can visit with
Santa and take home a
photo for a nominal
fee while enjoying holiday goodies. The
Aquarium Gift Shop
will remain open for
holiday shopping with
additional discounts.
Coffee and cookies,
gift boxes and shipping will be available.
Traditional family caroling with the Metro
Musicians in the auditorium completes the
fun.
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PG.
8
Sat.
9 a.m.-Noon
A & 6+
Learn to Snorkel
13
8
Sat.
1-4 p.m.
A & 6+
Learn to Snorkel
13
15
Sat.
9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
All
Sandhill Crane and Eagle Cruise
14
20
Thurs.
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Adults
Eat Pray Love Dinner at 212
14
22
Sat.
9-11 a.m.
A & 10+
Try SCUBA
13
22
Sat.
11 a.m.-1 p.m.
A & 10+
Try SCUBA
13
22
Sat.
10:30 a.m.-Noon
8-12
Jellies: Living Art
15
22
Sat.
10 a.m.-Noon
Adults
Rain Barrel Workshop — Go Green
12
28-30
A & 8+
Snorkel with the Manatees Weekend
11
29
Sat.
Fri.-Sun.
10-11:30 a.m.
5-7
How Much Wood Would a Woodchuck Chuck
15
29
Sat.
12:30-4:30 p.m.
A & 12+
Weave a Kudzu Basket
12
30
Sun.
1:30-3:30 p.m.
All
Trekking with Tykes at Greenway Farm
15
FEBRUARY
DATE
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Tues.
6:30-9 p.m.
Adults
Digital Camera Concepts
PG.
12
5
Sat.
9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Adults
In Depth Photography Seminar
13
5
Sat.
10 a.m.-Noon
Adults
Valentine Dish Gardens
12
12
Sat.
8:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.
All
Breakfast with the Penguins
10
13
Sun.
3-6 p.m.
All
Valentine Sunset Cruise
14
19
Sat.
2-3 p.m.
A & 2-3
Animal Makeovers
15
19
Sat.
9 a.m.-Noon
A & 8+
Day in the Life of an Aquarium Diver
10
Enjoy a meal at Big River Grille before or after your Aquarium event. Present
your Tennessee Aquarium membership card when you order to receive a discount.
Renew your Membership — anytime! Visit www.tnaqua.org/Membership/Membership.aspx
R I V E R WAT C H
9
FAMILY FUN
Family Critter Cruise
Presented by
Sleep in the Deep & Usher in the New
Year—Aquarium-style
“Tails” on the River
Monday, Dec. 27 • 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.
Our loveable furry mascot Ottessa Otter will greet you
when you join us for a fun-filled critter cruise on the River
Gorge Explorer. The river gorge has a unique beauty in the
winter and you never know what you’ll see! An Aquarium
educator will enthrall kids, and the young at heart, with an
interactive turtle tale and close encounter of the special kind
with a live box turtle.
Fri., Dec. 31, 2010 - Sat., Jan. 1, 2011 • 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 a.m.
Usher in 2011 with the Tennessee Aquarium! Celebrate
with special New Year’s Eve shenanigans from around the
world and a “midnight” toast with a sparkling non-alcoholic
beverage. On your night of adventure inside River and
Ocean Journey, explore behind the scenes, get up-close with
our critters, and encounter animals that might come out
with the dark to greet you and the New Year. At lights out,
bed down in the Undersea Cavern of Ocean Journey, while
sharks and thousands of colorful fish swim over and around
you. Includes overnight, guided tours, special activities, pizza
and continental breakfast.
All ages • Limited to 69 • $24/Member Adult; $18/Member Child (0-12)
$29/Non-Member Adult; $21.50/Non-Member Child (3-12); $18/Child
under 3
JOHN KELLEY
Aquarium Policy: MINIMUM AGE IS 6 !
Families with Children AGES 6 AND OLDER, accompanied by an adult
$45/Member, per person; 55/Non-Member, per person
Breakfast with the Penguins
Saturday, Feb. 12 • 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Enjoy breakfast and find out what’s on the menu in Penguin’s
Rock during a special feeding show by the penguin keeper.
Let us “wet” your appetite for a continental buffet breakfast,
juices and coffee. Original penguin art will be available for
unique Valentine gifts! Have more fun exploring the rest of
the galleries after we open.
All Ages • Limited to 150 • $10/Member; $34.95/Non-Member Adult;
$24.95/Non-Member Child
A Day in the Life of an Aquarium
Diver
Saturday, Feb. 19 • 9 a.m. - Noon
Shadow a volunteer diver behind the scenes to
learn what they do to help the Aquarium and discover how they feed sharks, stingrays and other fish.
You’ll learn dive language, help mix up a batch of fish
food in the food prep, explore the dive locker and
even help feed our fish. Then watch Aquarium divers in the Secret Reef during “A Tropical Holiday
Adventure.”
Adults and ages 8-12, accompanied by an adult • Limited to 15
$12/Member; $15/Non-Member per person
River Journey: Tennessee River Auditorium
Non-member price includes Aquarium admission
to both buildings.
REGISTER NOW online at www.tnaqua.org/Events.aspx or mail form on page 16 or call 423-267-FISH (3474).
10
R I V E R WAT C H
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TRAVEL ADVENTURES
For more information,
contact Travel Coordinator Betty Miles
at ebm@tnaqua.org
Snorkel with the Manatees Weekend
Friday, Jan. 28, 10 p.m. departure - Sunday, Jan. 30, 2011
Discover why the West Indian manatee has become endangered and what is being
done to save this “vanishing mermaid” on our family snorkeling trip to Florida led by
Senior aquarist Rob Mottice. We’ll drift-snorkel down the slow-moving Rainbow River
and swim with manatees in the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. We will also visit
the Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park. Includes trip orientation, transportation by
motor coach, one night hotel lodging, buffet breakfast and snorkeling excursions. Other meals
are on your own. Snorkeling equipment may be rented or purchased with a special discount at
Choo-Choo Dive Center (423-899-1008).
STOCK PHOTO
Families (children must be 8 and older) • Limited to 20, minimum of 16 • Members: $395/Adult per
person, double occupancy; $380/Child (8-12) $330/Child (8-12) sharing room with 2 others
Non-Members: add $25 per person or join as a member. Single Occupancy: Add $50
San Diego Photo Safari
Saturday, June 4 - Friday, June 10
Join professional nature photographers Tom and Pat
Cory to capture rich photographic images, from rugged seacoasts, sunsets and light houses to Spanish missions, naval
vessels and unusual flora and fauna. At Torey Pines, discover
colorful paragliders soaring above the ocean, a state reserve
with chaparral, elegant Torrey pine trees, fascinating rock
formations and an unspoiled beach. Point Loma features
the famous Cabrillo monument, the Old Point Loma
Lighthouse, sandstone cliffs and tide pools and rows of
white headstones on gentle grassy slopes overlooking the
ocean and bay at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery. We’ll
stop at a beautiful vineyard for a California wine tasting as
we make our way to the famous San Diego Zoo’s Wild
Animal Park for an African-style photo safari.
Chicago-Gardens, Art
and Architecture Weekend
Wednesday, June 8 - Sunday, June 12
STOCK PHOTO
Experience a sophisticated city known for beautiful parks
and gardens, famous architecture and world-renowned art
museums. Visit the Chicago Botanic Garden with acres of
landscapes featuring three stunning native habitats, including
a woodland, prairie and river areas. The Lincoln Park Zoo is
a world of wildlife in the shadow of skyscrapers located in a
verdant oasis in the middle of the city. The world famous
Art Institute of Chicago includes among its treasures Grant
Wood’s American Gothic, Edward Hopper’s Nighthawks and
impressive collections of Monet, Renoir, Matisse, Cezanne
just to mention a few. We’ll stroll through Millenium Park
to see Cloud Gate, locally known as The Bean, as well as the
lesser known Lurie Garden, a unique combination of spatial
structure, plantings and lighting design with a hardwood
walkway that follows a water feature through the Garden.
Marvel at Chicago’s soaring towers on a 90-minute, narrated
river cruise with the Chicago Architecture Foundation. Visit
the Shedd Aquarium and much more!
REGISTER NOW online at www.tnaqua.org/Events.aspx or mail form on page 16 or call 423-267-FISH (3474).
Renew your Membership — anytime! Visit www.tnaqua.org/Membership/Membership.aspx
R I V E R WAT C H
11
WORKSHOPS
Weave A Kudzu Basket!
Saturday, Jan. 29 • 12:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Weave a unique Appalachian-style egg basket with the
notorious kudzu vine, using techniques hundreds of years
old. All materials are provided, but please bring a pair of
garden clippers. Your instructor is Bill Haley, Aquarium education outreach coordinator and well-known basket weaver.
Rain Barrel Workshop—Go Green
Saturday, Jan. 22 • 10 a.m. - Noon
A rain barrel collects water from gutters and stores it for
future uses like watering plants and washing cars, especially
during periods of drought. Go Green and join the CocaCola Company’s recently launched Rain Barrel program to
conserve water. Convert an empty 55-gallon Coca-Cola
syrup drum into a working rain barrel attaching connectors
during the program with the help of Ace Hardware experts.
Learn how to install your rain barrel at home and the importance of practicing water conservation. Includes pre-drilled
barrel and a kit with hose adapters, spigot and basket for
trapping debris. Bring a vehicle to accommodate a 55-gallon (39-40” tall x 76” round) rain barrel.
Adults and Ages 12 and older accompanied by an adult • Limited to 15;
Minimum of 5 • $30/Member; $35/Non-Member
Aquarium: Delta Swamp Classroom
Valentine Dish Gardens
Saturday, Feb. 5 • 10 a.m. - Noon
Chase away Old Man Winter by joining
Christine Bock, Aquarium lead horticulturist,
and knowledgeable designers at The Barn Nursery to create
colorful dish gardens. Design a lovely arrangement of white
bulbs in a small, red-glazed bowl surrounded with your
choice of indoor tropical blooms and greenery. Along the
way, learn how to force bulbs and get tropical houseplant
tips including proper soil mix and fertilizers. Examples of
dish gardens, using a variety of houseplants, will inspire you
with great possibilities for color in winter.
Adults • Limited to 20 • $25/Member; $30/Non-Member
Location: IMAX Center Classrooms
Presented by
Presented by
and
Adults • Limited to 20 • $25/Member; $30/Non-Member
Meet at The Barn Nursery
Digital Camera Concepts
Tuesday, Feb. 1 • 6:30 - 9 p.m.
COCA-COLA
Feeling a bit overwhelmed with your new digital camera,
especially after trying to decipher the manual? Discover
how to quick start your camera with Pat Cory who will take
the mystery out of digital terminology. Learn how white
balance, histograms and image resolution correspond to
more familiar film concepts. Once you understand the
terms, using your manual and camera will be a “snap.”
Practice what you learn during a half-hour session in an
Aquarium gallery with hands-on help. Bring your digital
camera and manual.
Adults • Limited to 15, minimum 10 • $30/Member; $45/Non-Member
River Journey: Delta Swamp Classroom
REGISTER NOW online at www.tnaqua.org/Events.aspx or mail form on page 16 or call 423-267-FISH (3474).
12
R I V E R WAT C H
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In Depth—A Photography Seminar
At the Tennessee Aquarium
Saturday, Feb. 5 • 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
TOM AND PAT CORY
Professional nature and travel photographers Tom and Pat Cory will combine entertaining instructional presentations with hands-on photography sessions in the River and Ocean
Journey buildings. Begin in Ocean Journey before opening to capture images of colorful
butterflies and playful penguins. Instructors will cover the artistic and technical considerations for creating beautiful nature and travel photographs with impact and emotion. Topics
include close-up/macro images, wildlife photography including Aquarium animals, waterfalls, streams and more. We will visit Aquarium galleries to practice the techniques we have
discussed. For digital or film photographers of all levels. Includes Aquarium admission to two
buildings, instruction, one-on-one help, refreshments and a BBQ lunch.
Adults • Limited to 15; Minimum 10 • $75/Member; $100/Non-Member
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge by
Kayak
Presented by
Saturday, Dec. 4 • 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
KEVIN CALHOON
The Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge is one of the largest stopovers for
migrating sandhill cranes. Quiet and stable touring kayaks are one of
the best ways to observe cranes and other wintering species of birds.
Join Aquarium Senior Aviculturist, Kevin Calhoon, for a three-hour
paddle. Participants must have previous kayaking experience to avoid
the risk of cold water immersion. Includes equipment, warm drink,
snack and transportation from Greenway Farm with expert staff from
Chattanooga OutVenture.
Adults, 18 and older • Limited to 10; Minimum of 6
$28/Member; $33/Non-Member
Try SCUBA!
Learn to Snorkel
Nothing can describe the sensation of breathing under
water. Experience what it’s like to scuba dive at the Choo
Choo Diving & Aquatic Center. After explaining state of
the art scuba equipment, their staff will show you how to
use it and prepare you for an actual dive adventure in the
pool. You’ll even play a game of underwater Frisbee!
Includes the use of all scuba equipment. We will add additional 2 hour concurrent sessions as needed.
Saturday, Jan. 8, 2011 • 9 a.m. - Noon & 1 - 4 p.m.
Learn to snorkel, adjust and care for your equipment,
including snorkel-vest and weights when using a wetsuit.
Get valuable tips for safely entering and exiting the water
from shore or from a boat and coping with surf or currents. Includes: instruction in the classroom and in the pool
and use of snorkeling equipment.
Adults or children ages 6 and older • Limited to 8 per session • $28/
Member; $33/Non-Member
Choo-Choo Dive Center
Saturday, Jan. 22 • 9 - 11 a.m. & 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Adults and children ages 10 and older accompanied by a participating
parent or guardian • Limited to 6 per session • $10/Member;
$20/Non-Member in support of the Aquarium dive program
Choo-Choo Dive Center
REGISTER NOW online at www.tnaqua.org/Events.aspx or mail form on page 16 or call 423-267-FISH (3474).
Renew your Membership — anytime! Visit www.tnaqua.org/Membership/Membership.aspx
R I V E R WAT C H
13
SPECIAL EVENTS
Thursday, Nov. 18 • 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Orchid lovers—don’t miss this exclusive preview of our new tropical orchids
with several rare and exotic species ordered specifically for purchase during this
event. View our new flowering display in the Tropical Cove with experts who
will join Aquarium horticulturist Charlene Nash to provide information about
these colorful blooms. Nature photographers Tom and Pat Cory will also
exhibit stunning orchid photographs available for purchase. Buy an orchid for
your home or to give as a unique holiday gift before they are available for sale
to the public on November 19. Enjoy complimentary light appetizers, coffee, tea
and a cash bar.
Adults • $5/Member; $18/Non-Member (includes admission to Ocean Journey)
Eat Pray Love Dinner
Sandhill Crane and Eagle Cruise
In the Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge
Saturday, Jan. 15 • 9:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Join us for a premier wildlife adventure in the Hiwassee
Wildlife Refuge. See magnificent Sandhill Cranes, nesting
bald eagles and other wildlife aboard the Blue Moon, a
cruise boat with a climate-controlled lower deck and open
decks for getting closer to nature. Hiwassee Island, located
in the refuge, is the prime wintering observation site in the
southeast for observing thousands of migrating Sandhill
Cranes. Naturalists will point out wildlife and provide
interesting facts. Includes a BBQ lunch, 3 ½ -hour cruise
and naturalists.
All Ages • Limited to 75 • Adult: $34/Member; $39/Non-Member (age 16
and older) • Youth: $25/Member; $29/Non-Member (age 6-15),
accompanied by an adult • Child: Free/Ages 5 and younger, accompanied
by an adult • Board at Sale Creek Marina near Soddy Daisy
At 212 Market Restaurant
Thursday, Jan. 20 • 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
In the recent film Eat Pray Love a writer travels to Italy,
India and Indonesia to find her true self. Explore the cuisines
of these three world cultures and discover the Aquarium’s
Indonesian connection at the Fly River of New Guinea
exhibit. Begin with an Indonesian favorite, beef satay, grilled
strips of marinated beef with peanut sauce served with a
crunchy salad of bean sprouts, carrots, oranges and ginger
dressing. Continue with Roman Saltimbocca, chicken cutlets
thinly pounded with prosciutto and sage, sautéed in butter
and braised with white wine, accompanied by pasta.
Conclude with Gulab Jamun, small fried “doughnut holes”
made of flour, cardamom, sugar and saffron served with a
delicious mango sauce, very popular at Indian festivals.
Includes dinner, cooking demonstrations, one glass of house wine,
tax and gratuity.
Adults • Limited to 35 • $35/Member; $45/Non-Member
Valentine Sunset Cruise on the River Gorge Explorer
Sunday, Feb. 13 • 3 - 6 p.m.
Love is in the air so “go a little overboard” and treat someone special to a memorable experience aboard the Aquarium’s own
“Love Boat.” Our romantic three-hour sunset cruise takes you into the gorge-ous Grand Canyon of Tennessee where a naturalist
will point out wildlife as you munch on complimentary appetizers. Sing along to “Muskrat Love” and discover the special courtship of some animals that live and “love” along the river. Pop the question, renew your vows or even tie the knot! Our captains
are ordained ministers. You just need to bring the license and witness! Cash bar available for wine, beer and soft drinks.
All Ages • Limited to 65 • $36/Member Adult; $29/Member Child (3-12) • $41/Non-Member Adult; $34/Non-Member Child (3-12)
$20/Member or Non-Member Child (2 and younger)
REGISTER NOW online at www.tnaqua.org/Events.aspx or mail form on page 16 or call 423-267-FISH (3474).
14
R I V E R WAT C H
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TODD STAILEY
Tropical Holiday Orchid Preview and Sale
FUN FOR KIDS
Summer Camp Registration is Coming!
Mark Your Calendar
Monday, March 7 • Members
Monday, March 21• Non-Members
Camp schedules will be in the spring
Riverwatch, mailed in February.
Bug Club
Bug Club is for kids who love learning about fascinating
multi-legged creatures. Bug Club meets from 4 to 6 p.m. on
the third Thursday of each month and membership includes a
monthly newsletter and T-shirt. Games, snacks and experiments round out the fun. Please alert us to any food allergies.
Ages 5-11 • $20/Member; $30/Non-Member per quarter (every 3 months)
plus a one-time $15 initiation fee—Call Aquarium Educator Julia Gregory at
(423) 785-4054 to register and pay. (The membership department does not
take registrations for Bug Club!) Please alert us about any food allergies.
December: Arthropod Holiday Decorations; January: Insect
Mouths; February: Ugly Bug Ball XI
Remember to renew your membership early so you don’t miss out on your
next Riverwatch or camp registration. Renew today at www.tnaqua.org
Jellies: Living Art
Ages 8-12 • Limited to 15, minimum of 5 • $8/Member; $13/Non-Member •
River Journey: Delta Swamp Classroom
How Much Wood, Would a Woodchuck
Chuck?
Saturday, Jan. 29 • 10 - 11:30 a.m.
With Groundhog Day right around the corner, what better time to meet a real one up-close and in person! Discover
why this animal is such a well-known weather forecaster and
the answers to many other questions. Fun-filled activities
will help you learn about the groundhog’s, aka woodchuck’s,
special adaptations and natural history. You may even to get
to feel Chattanooga Chuck’s amazing fur coat! Please alert us
to any food allergies.
Ages 5-7 • Limited to 15, minimum of 5 • $8/Member; $13/Non-Member •
River Journey: Tennessee River Auditorium
TODD STAILEY
Saturday, Jan. 22 • 10:30 a.m. - Noon
It’s hard to decide which is more fun, the art or the science of jellies. So we’re going to enjoy both! We will go
behind the scenes to discover how we breed and care for
these mysterious creatures. You will learn about their unique
life cycle and special adaptations used for survival, and make
your own glowing glass craft to take home.
Trim the Tree–Naturally
Saturday, Dec. 18 • 9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
Trim the tree with Christmas stuff like prickly balls and
cattail fluff! What other natural items can be gathered from
our yards to decorate an outdoor tree? Bring a parent and
we’ll create natural tree ornaments, decorations and trimmings while we munch on a holiday snack. Please alert us to
any food allergies.
Ages 3-4, accompanied by an adult (only register child) • Limited to 12,
minimum of 5 • $8/Member; $13/Non-Member • River Journey: Delta Swamp
Classroom
Presented by
Winter Trekking with Tykes
Saturday, Feb. 19 • 2 - 3 p.m.
Many animals at the Aquarium change as they “grow up.”
Some change so much they have to get a whole new covering
each time they grow. Discover how as you meet live animals
up-close, play a game together and make a cute animal craft.
At Greenway Farm
Sunday, Jan. 30 • 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.
(Rain date: Feb. 6)
Bundle up and join us at Greenway Farm, a wooded preserve with a scenic trail that follows the North Chickamauga
Creek. Our guide will lead parents and tots on a discovery
hike around an open prairie where we hope to see colorful
wintering birds and find animal tracks. Includes a warm
drink. Please bring your own water, snack or lunch.
Ages 2-3, accompanied by an adult • Limited to 15, minimum of 5 •
$8/Member; $13/Non-Member • River Journey: Delta Swamp Classroom
Parents and young children • Limited to 20, minimum of 5 •
Free/Member; $5/Non-Member per person
Animal Makeovers
REGISTER NOW online at www.tnaqua.org/Events.aspx or mail form on page 16 or call 423-267-FISH (3474).
Renew your Membership — anytime! Visit www.tnaqua.org/Membership/Membership.aspx
R I V E R WAT C H
15
PROGRAM REGISTRATION — REGISTER NOW!
www.tnaqua.org/Events.aspx
Registration is required for all programs with payment in full.
ONLINE:
PROGRAM REGISTRATION FORM
www.tnaqua.org/Events.aspx
PHONE: 423-267-FISH (3474) or
800-262-0695, ext. 3400, 8:30 a.m. 4:45 p.m. weekdays. Please have event
and credit card information ready.
PAYMENT is required by credit card,
cash or check when registering.
Member Name
Membership Number
Address
City
Home Telephone
Program
State
Business Telephone
Date/Time
Zip
E-mail
Participant Name
Age
Fee
CONFIRMATION with event details
will be mailed upon receipt of event
fees.
CANCELLATIONS/REFUND: We
cannot provide refunds for no-shows.
Unless noted differently, cancellations
must be received no less than two
weeks prior to event date for a refund.
A full refund is made if the Aquarium
cancels an event or if an event is full.
*Indicates second choice of date/time if program is offered more than once.
**Guests who are not members must pay non-member fees.
MAIL TO:
Member Programs
Tennessee Aquarium
P.O. Box 11048
Chattanooga, TN 37401-2048
VISA
Check Enclosed (payable to Tennessee Aquarium)
Mastercard
Discover
Amex.
Card Number
Exp. Date
Cardholder’s Signature
READ ABOUT MEMBER PROGRAMS ONLINE AT: www.tnaqua.org/events.aspx
RENEW ONLINE — ANYTIME! Visit www.tnaqua.org
Searching for the perfect holiday gift...
...one the entire family will enjoy? Why not give an Annual membership to the
Tennessee Aquarium? A family membership is only $115 and the perfect gift for
family or friends. Enjoy the security and convenience of shopping online and feel
confident that with just a few clicks, you’re giving a gift they’ll use throughout the
year. Aquarium members enjoy special privileges for an entire year including: unlimited visits, exciting events and travel, discounts on guest admission, River Gorge
Explorer and IMAX tickets, and gift shop purchases. Visit www.tnaqua.org/membership/GiftMemberships.aspx to sign up today.
Go Paperless!
Your Riverwatch magazine is now offered in a dynamic, new electronic version and
delivered right to your inbox. The new digital Riverwatch contains the same great
articles, vivid photos, and listings of fun-filled events as the print version; and now
enhanced with additional features like video and interactive links. Visit www.tnaqua.
org/membership_riverwatch.aspx today and sign up to receive your Riverwatch
magazine in the new digital format. It’s a great way to conserve paper and promote
“green” practices at home.
Become an Aquarium Insider
Sign up to receive the Aquarium Insider e-newsletter and be among the first to learn
about new animals and exhibits, conservation programs, special events at the
Aquarium and new films coming to the IMAX 3D Theater. Visit www.tnaqua.org/
membership.aspx to subscribe today.
Remember to Renew Your Membership
Visit www.tnaqua.org/membership.aspx to renew your membership anytime - it’s
fast and convenient. You’ll also help save the cost of future mailings and conserve
natural resources.
Official sponsor of the Tennessee Aquarium Membership Program.
16
R I V E R WAT C H
Go green and get Riverwatch online! Visit www.tnaqua.org/Membership/Riverwatch.aspx
s! InitieaeschinRivtheriswasetccthion.
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A-MAZE-ING CORAL
Denison Barb
Puntius denisonii
Corals get their characteristics from the unique shapes and patterns that form as their
polyps reproduce and secrete calcium carbonate. Brain coral is appropriately named
since their round shapes and grooved ridges resemble a brain.
Challenge your brain and see if you can complete the brain coral maze!
• There are different species of brain coral such as open brain coral, knobby brain
coral, grooved brain coral and maze coral. Brain corals can be found in clear tropical waters all over the world’s oceans.
• Brain coral is a type of stony coral and is responsible for building much of our large
coral reef structures. Coral reefs start with one tiny polyp only a few millimeters in
diameter; it clones itself to form a colony. One brain coral colony can grow to be six
to eight feet in diameter.
• All species of coral need protection. They are threatened by poor water quality,
habitat destruction and rising water temperatures.
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Discover ways to support Tennessee Valley conservation at www.tnaqua.org
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17
TE NNESSEE AQUARIU M
ANIMAL TR ADING C ARDS
Tennessee Aquarium F936
Highhat
Pareques acuminatus
• Habitat — Clear tropical water near
islands, coral reefs, sea grass beds and
adjacent bays in the Western Atlantic,
Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean.
SILLY JOKES & RIDDLES
What do sea monsters eat for lunch?
Fish and ships!
Cut along dotted lines and start your own collection.

• Diet — Carnivorous eating a varied
diet of zooplankton and small benthic
invertebrates.
• Size — Common adult length is about 18
cm. (just over seven inches). Maximum
length is 23 cm .
highhat is in the drum
family which is named so for
WOW! The
making drumming sounds by
using muscles which are attached to their
swim bladder.
Highats can be seen in the Secret Reef
Exhibit of Ocean Journey. Look for them
hiding among the coral formations.
Tennessee Aquarium F854
Denison Barb
Puntius denisonii
• Habitat — Fast flowing streams and
rocky pools with thick riparian vegetation. Endemic to four rivers in India where
it is known as the red-lined torpedo fish.
• Diet — Omnivorous eating mainly
vegetation but also insects and small
invertebrates on occasion.
• Size — Common adult length is 10 cm
(about four in). Maximum length is 15 cm.
denison bard has been
WOW! The
assigned a VU (vulnerable)
status by the international Union for Conservation in Nature. Reasons for this status
include habitat degradation and overexploitation. Efforts are currently being made to
breed this species in captivity.
The denison barb can be found in the
Asian Rivers Exhibit on level 2 of River
Journey.
WHAT IS IT?
This is the wing of a mosquito. Microscopic
scales help improve flight efficiency by
reducing drag. Their wings beat up to 600
R I V E times
R W A Tper
C Hsecond.
18
EGG-QUISITE CORAL REEF
MATERIALS YOU WILL NEED:
White foam egg carton or paper egg carton
White paint for paper carton only
Markers, crayons, or glitter and glue
Construction paper
Scissors
Tape
DIRECTIONS:
1. Cut the egg carton into groups of at least two cups to represent polyps of a coral colony.
2. If your carton is paper, turn it upside down and paint the bottom white. Polyps secrete a
skeleton of white calcium carbonate which they get from the ocean water.
3. Cut a hole half an inch wide in the bottom of each cup.
4. Make strips of construction paper and tape them together at one end. These bundles represent your polyps’ bodies and should fit snugly into the holes you just cut.
5. Apply glitter to some of the strips. These are the symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) that give
the polyp both its color and its food. (If your mom doesn’t like glitter, use markers or crayons.)
6. Each group of cups should have the same color paper and glitter since all polyps in a
colony belong to the same species.
7. You can push your paper bundles up
and down to simulate how polyps’
extend their tentacles to feed.
EDUCATION
Making it Matter
Aquarium Educator Christine Young
TODD STAILEY
T
he Tennessee Aquarium’s exhibit galleries frequently
fill with students, each vying to get a closer glimpse
of an animal in its natural habitat. Those of us
who work in such an exciting facility each day witness the
benefits of immersive, educational experiences on each
child who explores the Aquarium’s underwater world.
As a member of the Aquarium’s education staff, I see the
curiosity on children’s faces as they reach into a tank to
feel the boney plates of a lake sturgeon. I see the look of
astonishment as they come face-to-face with a nine-foot
shark. These moments remind me just how impactful a
visit to the Aquarium can be for inquisitive young visitors.
In April, one student’s experience was an unforgettable
reminder of the unique and inspiring role this place plays
in children’s lives.
After leading a classroom program for a group of prekindergarten students, I became aware that their teacher,
Janessa Nipper, was piling items to purchase onto the counter at the Aquarium’s gift shop. As one of her young students admired a bucket of animal rings, Ms. Nipper asked
the girl if she would like to have one. The girl replied, “Yes!
A sting ray please!” Her eyes welling with tears, Ms. Nipper
explained why the experience at the Aquarium led her to be
so overwhelmed.
Ms. Nipper’s students come from a rural region with
limited place-based learning opportunities. Taking her
class to the Aquarium provided unique experiences for a
group of children who rarely have this kind of opportunity.
Ms. Nipper, however, was not prepared for the impact
the Aquarium would have on one student who had been
non-verbal throughout the school year. Typically going
weeks without speaking a word, this young student had not
responded to a number of strategies designed to encourage
her to communicate verbally. Ms. Nipper noticed a change
as the child entered the first exhibit in River Journey; her
interest and excitement were apparent. Incredibly, in the
inspirational and immersive Aquarium environment, the
child began to speak to her teachers, showing a level of engagement they had not seen in the previous nine months.
Ms. Nipper was amazed and decided to encourage the
child to continue communicating with words in any way
she could. She and the student agreed that she would tell
her teachers exactly where she wanted to go rather than
point or pull. The student did just that. She began to talk
about what she was seeing and directed her teachers around
the Aquarium. Upon arriving at the gift shop, Ms. Nipper
was still in disbelief as she witnessed her non-verbal student
speaking. To encourage continued speech, Ms. Nipper
offered to buy the student souvenirs if she would use her
words to describe them. The talking continued.
Following their visit, Ms. Nipper expanded upon the
impact the experience had on her student. Without the
exhibits and atmosphere of the Aquarium, Ms. Nipper
believes this student would have finished pre-kindergarten
without ever engaging in verbal communication with her
teachers. “Exposure to everything from live animals to
escalators facilitates students in gaining knowledge and
vocabulary,” noted Ms. Nipper. “The Aquarium provides a
learning environment that could never be duplicated in the
classroom.” The student has maintained her interest in the
aquatic world like nothing she had studied before.
Experiences like this one remind me of the importance
of place-based learning and its enduring effect to engage
even the most reticent students. My fellow educators and I
provide programs and immersive experiences to more than
90,000 students each year. We give students the opportunity to discover unseen and unknown aquatic environments,
from a stream in their own back yard to strange habitats in
far-away oceans. Every day, I am proud to know that the
experiences I provide will profoundly impact America’s next
generation. 
About the Authors: Christine Young is a Tennessee Aquarium
educator and Susannah Taylor is the Tennessee Aquarium NOAA
grant coordinator.
Discover ways to support Tennessee Valley conservation at www.tnaqua.org
R I V E R WAT C H
19
RIVERCURRENTS
This bald eagle was one of eight spot
ted on a
single cruise last winter.
WARREN-MCCLELLAND AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Captains Mike and Pete Hosemann will
ill tell you
o that winter is
actually their favorite time to cruise the Tennessee River. Last year’s
cold conditions brought more bald eagles to the area as frigid
weather farther north seemed to entice them to relatively warmer
locations like Chattanooga. As many as eight bald eagles were sighted on one excursion last February. And the snowy scenes, down to
the water’s edge, were thrilling for passengers at the end of January
2010. “Whenever Chattanooga receives measureable snowfall, the
views in the Gorge are spectacular,” said Captain Pete Hosemann.
So grab the camera and enjoy winter’s wonders from inside the
River Gorge Explorer’s toasty warm cabin. For excursion times and
ticket information, go to: www.tnaqua.org/RiverGorgeExplorer/
BoatSchedule.aspx. 
JOHN DEVER
Winter Wonders Aboard
the River Gorge Explorer
Do you collect Christmas tree ornaments? Our glass
animal ornaments are unique examples of this special art
form. We have alligators, butterflies, frogs, turtles, cardinals,
jellyfish, seashells—even octopus glass ornaments. We also
sell beautiful enameled cloisonné ornaments. A penguin
and seahorse are two of the most charming designs.
Another option is one of our custom designed Tennessee Aquarium ball ornaments, which feature
our river otters, reef fish or penguins.
Look for these ornaments in our River
Journey and Ocean Journey gift shops or
visit our newly redesigned online store at
http://store.shopaquarium.org/. As a member
you will receive your 10% discount by typing in
JELLIES in the check-out section.
Want to give someone a year’s worth of fun? Purchase
an Aquarium family membership gift certificate online or
by phone at 800-262-0695. Membership gift certificates are
also available at any Tennessee Aquarium ticket window
or gift shop. 
20
R I V E R WAT C H
Go green and get Riverwatch online! Visit www.tnaqua.org/Membership/Riverwatch.aspx
TODD STAILEY
Holiday Gift Suggestions
New Aquarium Vehicle
Gibson Heads Back to the Music-City
Gibson, the giant guitarfish rescued after the devastating floods that struck Nashville
last May, is now back home in the Music-City. The star of the Nashville Aquarium Restaurant
at Opry Mills headed home after more than three months away.
Gibson received the royal treatment while Tennessee Aquarium staff cared for him. Apparently the accommodations and buffet were quite suitable at the Aquarium’s Animal Care
Facility. Senior aquarist Rob Mottice said Gibson grew a surprising amount during his stay
here. He estimates Gibson grew six to 10 inches while in Chattanooga. 
THOM BENSON
Eye on the Sky and the Aquarium
Thanks to a grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA),
the Tennessee Aquarium has a new, real-time weather station. Instruments, located atop
the IMAX® 3D Theater, are now constantly monitoring and recording weather conditions in
downtown Chattanooga. Aquarium educators will use climate data from this new tool in
ocean literacy and watershed programs.
You can check out the current weather conditions and take a look at downtown Chattanooga before your next visit. A live, high-definition
webcam is also streaming the view of what’s happening in the sky above the Aquarium’s glass peaks. View
it at: www.tnaqua.org/Education/WeatherBug.aspx.
We invite everyone to add this weather station to
their smart-phone by downloading the WeatherBug
app. Or, share the real-time view and information
with friends by adding the Tennessee Aquarium’s
weather station to your blog or Facebook page.
Download the widgets at: stickers.weatherbug.com.
Chattanooga Chuck might also use these
new weather tools to help prepare his forecast on
Groundhog Day 2011. Last year, he was right on the
money with his forecast for six more weeks of winter.
Find out what he’ll predict this year on Wednesday,
February 2nd at 11 am and 4 pm in the River Journey
Auditorium. 
2010 Conservation
Society Members
JOHN KELLEY
The Aquarium’s education department has added a
new Volkswagen Jetta TDI to
the outreach program. This
vehicle is one of Volkswagen’s
clean diesel models that provides increased mileage with
a 95% reduction in emissions.
Bethany Lloyd, Aquarium
outreach educator, will use
this sporty new ride to bring
NOAA supported ocean literacy programs to area schools.
Lloyd won’t be the only passenger though. She has already developed three lesson plans for classrooms featuring cool
creatures like jellies, horseshoe crabs, sea stars, sea cucumbers and calico crabs. 
We gratefully acknowledge the
following members of the Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Society.
These partners help support the
Aquarium’s many conservation,
education and research programs.
To learn how you can join the
Conservation Society, please contact
Heather DeGaetano at hbd@tnaqua.
org or by phone at 423-785-4106.
FOUNDER
Christopher & Kathleen Canoles
Mrs. Ruth Holmberg
CHAIRMAN
Mr. Scott Corwon
Ashley & Ward Davenport
Mr. & Mrs. Mitchel Everhart
Arthur & Cynthia MacFadden
Mr. Paul Neely
Mr. & Mrs. Frank Williamson
PRESIDENT
Dr. & Mrs. Dave Adair
Mr. Charles L. Arant
Mr. & Mrs. F. Mitchell Bell
Timothy & Karen Boates
Mr. & Mrs. Steve Brandon
Mr. & Mrs. Paul K. Brock, Jr.
Mr. & Mrs. K. Harrison Brown
Mr. & Mrs. Hardwick Caldwell, Jr.
Mr. Robert H. Caldwell
Chris & Susan Crimmins
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph F. Decosimo
Heather & Joseph DeGaetano
Dr. Anna George & Dr. Dave Neely
Bill & Wilma Godsey
Mr. & Mrs. Gerald J. Grekowicz
James & Annie Hall
Mr. K. Donald Jensen
Dr. Daniel Kennedy
Mr. James Kennedy, Jr.
Mr. Everett Kerr
Mr. & Mrs. Charles B. Lebovitz
Bud & Angie Lewallen
Mr. & Mrs. Robert S. Lyons
Mr. & Mrs. Jack McDonald
Ted & Mary Moore
Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey H. Parker
J. Moses & Martha Payne
Ms. Judy B. Powell
Mervin & Helen Pregulman
Irvin & Judith Pressman
Mr. & Mrs. Scott L. Probasco, Jr.
Mr. & Mrs. Joel W. Richardson, Jr.
Mr. Frank V. Schriner
Robert & Pris Siskin
Mr. & Mrs. Gordon L. Smith, Jr.
Gordon & Cheryl Stalans
Kelly & Kim Sullivan
Mr. & Mrs. Terry Todd
Phil & Ellen Whitaker
Hon. & Mrs. Walter F. Williams
Anonymous (1)
Discover ways to support Tennessee Valley conservation at www.tnaqua.org
R I V E R WAT C H
21
TOM AND PAT CORY
SPECIAL EVENTS
A
quarium horticulturist
Charlene Nash will be the
first to tell you that
Orchid Fever is contagious. For
centuries these delightfully delicate,
brightly colored tropical plants have
triggered an insatiable desire to seek out
and possess as many varieties as possible.
Nash also takes pleasure in refuting the false impression that
orchids are impossible to care for. “They are actually quite
hardy plants,” Nash said. “If you provide them with good
light, proper humidity levels and a small amount of fertilizer,
they will do quite well at home.”
Photographers Tom and Pat Cory can attest to both the
ease of care and the infectious nature of orchids. “We now
have about two dozen and we seem to keep accumulating
them,” Tom said. “Normally I can pretty much kill any kind
of plant. But orchids are very easy to care for. Many of ours
stay in bloom for months.”
Since their home collection began, the pair has begun
seeking out orchids on photography trips they lead around
the world. “They’re not strictly tropical. We’ve seen them
growing wild in Ireland,” Pat said. “We even saw some teeny-tiny orchids in Iceland this year. They are totally different from what you would have in the house, but they are
orchids.” According to Tom, orchid blooms yield plenty of
surprises for shutterbugs. “As you get in closer and closer,
you begin to notice all of the wonderful shapes, colors and
textures,” Tom said.
Visitors will have a chance to catch Orchid Fever during
the Aquarium’s “Tropical Holiday Adventure” November 19
to January 2, 2011. Nash has been busy collecting some of
the most striking and unique orchid varieties for everyone to
enjoy – and purchase. Details about the Tropical Holiday
Orchid Preview and Sale are on page 14.
Guests might also enjoy strolling among the orchids
with horticulture experts Saturdays at 9:30 am during the
22
R I V E R WAT C H
Tropical Holiday Adventure. Discover the history and fascinating features of these amazing flowers before the Aquarium opens, and then settle in for a day of rest and relaxation.
Visitors will soak in the warmth while enjoying the vibe
of Caribbean holiday music. Tropically clad “Santa” divers will drift effortlessly among schools of colorful reef fish.
Guests will be introduced to exotic creatures ranging from a
tiny toucan to festive-looking reptiles and amphibians during special animal encounter programs. It’s an awe inspiring
way to get away from it all! 
“TROPICAL HOLIDAY ADVENTURE”
DAILY SCHEDULE: NOV. 19, 2010 - JAN. 2, 2011
THE AQUARIUM IS CLOSED ON THANKSGIVING AND CHRISTMAS DAY.
Animal Encounters. Locations and animals vary throughout
10 A.M. - 4:30 P.M. Hourly
the day.
Help keepers surface feed stingrays and guitarfish-Ocean Journey10:15 A.M.
Tropical Cove, Shark Island, Level 4.
Delight in the first flight of butterflies when they are released into a lush
10:30 A.M.
tropical garden-Ocean Journey-Butterfly Garden, Level 4.
Talk to tropical “Santa” divers as they take you on a shark-filled journey
11 A.M.
through spectacular coral formations-Ocean Journey-Secret Reef, Level 2.
Chill out with the river otters during “enrichment” time. See what they
11:15 A.M.
do with treats, ice and toys-River Journey-Cove Forest, Level 4.
Talk to tropical “Santa” divers as they take you on a shark-filled journey
11:30 A.M.
through spectacular coral formations-Ocean Journey-Secret Reef, Level 2.
Explore the behaviors and adaptations of the hyacinth macaw, the larg1 P.M.
est member of the parrot family-Ocean Journey-Tropical Cove, Level 4.
2 P.M. & 2:30 P.M. Talk to tropical “Santa” divers as they take you on a shark-filled journey
through spectacular coral formations-Ocean Journey-Secret Reef, Level 2.
Join the seahorses for their version of “Slurpin’ a Cheeseburger in Para3:30 P.M.
dise” and discover what they really eat-River Journey, Level A.
Surround yourself with butterflies and meet their perfect complement,
4 P.M.
crested wood partridges-Ocean Journey-Butterfly Garden, Level 4.
Go green and get Riverwatch online! Visit www.tnaqua.org/Membership/Riverwatch.aspx
Rain Barrel Program
One of my favorite gee-whiz, meteorological factoids answers this question,
“How many gallons of water fall on one
acre of land during a storm that produces
one inch of rain?” Sparing all of the mathematical details, the answer is an astounding 27,154 gallons.
THOM BENSON
C
hattanooga receives an annual average of 54.5”
of rain. So, assuming a one acre lawn receives an
average amount of rain, nearly 1.5 million gallons
of water could fall on it in a year. Imagine if you could
capture a fraction of that for use when needed? Now you
can, thanks to a new rain barrel program at the Tennessee
Aquarium.
Ace Hardware and Chattanooga Coca-Cola Bottling
Company have partnered with the Aquarium to make it
easy for more residents to save money while helping the
environment.
Plastic barrels, originally used to hold concentrate for
producing thirst-quenchers like Powerade, Minute-Maid
drinks and Vitamin Water, have been finding their way into
the community for several years as recycling and trash bins.
“Their lightweight construction, combined with the fact
that it is easy to remove the tops of these plastic containers,
made them perfect for this purpose,” said Rick Hansard,
Marketing Director for the Chattanooga Coca-Cola Bottling Company. “There are thousands of them currently being used at recreation fields, schools and various additional
locations in our community.”
Once Hansard began receiving calls from people wanting rain barrels, he recognized an opportunity to have a
broad impact in the area by bringing Coca-Cola’s national
rain barrel program to Chattanooga. “The Tennessee Aquarium is known for providing information and executing
programs that promote water conservation in the Chattanooga area,” said Hansard. “The rain barrel workshops are a
wonderful way that Coca-Cola can assist in this endeavor.”
At the same time, ACE Hardware representatives were
looking for ways to expand green initiatives beyond their 11
Build a rainbarrel and take advantage of nature’s free watersource.
area stores. “Water is an important resource that we need to
preserve,” said John Rutter, marketing manager for Chattanooga area ACE Hardware stores. “We see the rain barrel
project as an opportunity to teach folks how to do a conservation project on their own.” ACE is providing plumbing
supplies, such as spigots, and debris baskets needed to
convert the 55-gallon plastic drums into rain barrels.
Two Aquarium workshops have already placed more
than 60 rain barrels in the community, with another 50
built and distributed as part of the RiverRocks festival.
Aquarium marketing director Cindy Todd says the collaborative power of these rain barrel workshops is another
shining example of businesses working together to improve
Chattanooga’s sustainability. “This program will continue
to grow as people discover how easy it is to build and use
their own rain barrels,” said Todd. “We can all save money
while conserving our drinking water supply.”
Want your own rain barrel? Register for the next workshop on Saturday, January 22, 2011. Details on page 12. 
PRESENTED BY:
About the Author: Thom Benson is the Tennessee Aquarium communications manager. He is also the editor of Riverwatch.
Discover ways to support Tennessee Valley conservation at www.tnaqua.org
R I V E R WAT C H
23
TENNESSEE AQUARIUM
One Broad Street
P.O. Box 11048
Chattanooga, TN 37401-2048
Non-Profit
Organization
US POSTAGE
PAID
The Tennessee Aquarium is a non-profit institution. Your
dollars support our many education, conservation and research
programs. Visit www.tnaqua.org for more
information. Join us on Facebook and Twitter.
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
VISION
The Tennessee Aquarium envisions a world
that values all aquatic environments.
RIVERWATCH EDITOR
Thom Benson
riverwatcheditor@tnaqua.org
Chattanooga, TN
PERMIT #989
TIME-SENSITIVE MATERIAL
EVENTS EDITOR
Betty Miles
EDITORIAL BOARD
Loribeth Aldrich
Lisa Garey Brown
Heather DeGaetano
Chris Dortch
Carol Haley
Dr. Anna George
John Kelley
Laura Kroeger
Jennifer Latour
Tom Lee
Julie Piper
Janie Shipley
Cindy Todd
Mara-Lynne Payne
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Karen Estes/Jeff Worley
PHOTOGRAPHER
Todd Stailey
Riverwatch is published quarterly by the Tennessee Aquarium.
Written material may not be reproduced without proper credit.
The logo, the name Tennessee Aquarium and Riverwatch are
registered trademarks of the Tennessee Aquarium. IMAX® &
IMAX®3D are registered trademarks of Imax Corporation,
Mississauga, Canada.
The Tennessee Aquarium is open daily from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.,
except for Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day.
Official sponsor of the Tennessee
Aquarium Membership Program.
®
Schedule beginning Nov. 19th • For details, go to www.tnaqua.org/IMAX/IMAX.aspx
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