Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium

Founded by renowned marine scientist Eugenie Clark in 1955, the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium in Sarasota initially focused on shark research. Over the years, it has expanded its mission to encompass a wide array of marine life. The heart of the facility is an aquarium that houses more than 100 species, including a massive 130,000-gallon (490,000-liter) shark habitat. Visitors can explore this diverse aquatic world, gaining insights into the research and conservation efforts that continue to shape our understanding of the ocean’s inhabitants.