South Carolina Aquarium on Charleston Harbor: Exhibits ~ Saltmarsh

Stingrays in the new renovated Saltmarsh Exhibit

An immersive exhibit with expansive views of the Charleston Harbor, guests will feel as if they are kayaking through the saltmarsh tidal creeks of the Lowcountry. Catch a glimpse of shoreline favorites such as herons, diamondback terrapins and pufferfish as well as more than 25 stingrays in a new 6,000 gallon tank!

Saltmarshes are one of the most important marine habitats when it comes to seafood production. Not only do shrimp live on saltmarshes, but so do oysters, clams, blue crabs and many recreationally harvested fish like red drum, speckled trout, and flounder.
For a list of coastal species perfect for the dinner table,
visit here

Saltmarshes are a vital part of the Lowcountry ecosystem, ranking among the most productive ecosystems on earth. One of their biggest threats is pollution. Pollutants like chemicals, oil and marine debris can harm or even kill some of the organisms living in saltmarshes. 80% of marine debris is plastic so be sure to pick up your trash and try to avoid using anything that could harm animals or plants. Check the events calendar for the next Beach Sweep to help keep our coast clean! Calendar

When visiting the Saltmarsh, try your hand at the newest experience, Feed the Rays! Purchase a cup of local and sustainable shrimp from Gilligan's Shrimp Shack located right outside the exhibit for $2 each and watch what happens as you feed the stingrays! (feeding while food lasts each day).
Learn more about stingrays

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: How do I feed the stingrays?
A: It's easy to feed a ray! Aquarium staff will provide you with a plastic feeding stick; the shrimp is placed on this stick and lowered into the water with the stingrays and they do the rest!
Q: How often can they eat?
A: South Carolina Aquarium staff closely monitors the health of the stingrays and determines their food needs. Food will be available everyday beginning at 10 a.m. and will continue to be available until the stingrays have eaten their daily amount.
Q: Will I get stung?
A: No, there really isn't any danger. Stingrays are really gentle creatures and by using the feeding sticks, your hands won't be near their tails (or their mouths) anyway.

CONSTRUCTING THE COAST
Ever wonder what goes into creating an exhibit at the South Carolina Aquarium? How the banks and immersive environment are built? Sneak a peek behind the magic with this video of the Saltmarsh construction.

The Aquarium would like to thank our generous exhibit sponsors and media sponsors:

Content on this page requires a newer version of Adobe Flash Player.