Ecosystems on display

This is a Treasure Coast Essay by Paul Janensch about a wonderful way to experience our area’s diverse marine life.  Without getting wet!  The Smithsonian Marine Station research facility at Fort Pierce is closed to the public.  But across Seaway Drive, the Smithsonian Marine Station at the St. Lucie Aquarium welcomes visitors.  The St. Lucie Aquarium contains six ecosystem exhibits: coral reef, seagrass, mangrove, hardbottom, nearshore and oculina.  Observe sea horses, trunkfish, horseshoe crabs and sea urchins from the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean.  Put your hand in a touch tank.  Be there at feeding time.  The partnership recently celebrated its 15^th anniversary.  The Smithsonian Marine Station at the St. Lucie Aquarium is well worth a visit.  I’m Paul Janensch.