The Mote bills itself as a research facility first and aquarium second, and has a large department dedicated to the study of sharks. Exhibits include a preserved giant squid (37ft long when caught) and a dramatic shark tank where you can watch training sessions in action. In a separate building the aquarium organises encounters with sea turtles, manatees and dolphins. It may seem like a lovely idea but animal welfare groups suggest interaction with dolphins and other sea mammals held in captivity creates stress for these creatures.
For an extra fee you can join trainers tank-side and feed the sharks yourself. Adjacent to Mote, Save Our Seabirds displays a wide range of rescued seabirds in outdoor cages.
