Add-On Programs

TERRIFIC TURTLES! (PRE K– 5th Grade)

Learn about turtle anatomy, behavior and the differences between tortoises, terrapins, and sea turtles. Understand and explore their unique adaptations, commonalities, and differences. Find out what makes these shelled reptiles so special. Learn about our residents and visit with CMA’s Russian tortoise. This program is $3.00 per participant and lasts 45 minutes.

MAKE WAY FOR MANATEES (PRE K-8th Grade)

Investigate Florida’s state marine mammal - the manatee! Learn about manatee eating habits and about their various environments. Discover the dangers they face and ways we all can help support their populations. This program is $3.00 per participant and lasts 45 min.

MARINE BIOLOGY 101 (K– 8th Grade)

Learn marine biology 101 as you climb the phylogenetic tree and get an introduction to some of the animals that call Clearwater Marine Aquarium home. Discuss animal adaptations and strategies necessary for survival in different habitats. Examine the life cycles, environment, and feeding methodologies of various marine animals using touch to explore biofacts and live touch tank invertebrates. This program is $3.00 per student and lasts 45 min.

OPERATION: WINTER’S TAIL (K–12th Grade)

In cooperation with Hanger Clinic, learn about the chemical, biological, physical, and mathematical processes behind the most famous tail in the world. We will learn about Winter’s legacy and walk step by step through the Hanger Clinic’s process of creating a tail for an orphaned dolphin injured in a crab trap line. This program is $3.00 per participant and lasts 45 min.

RESCUE RESPONDERS (K-12th grade)

Discover how Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s rescue response team works to fulfill our mission of rescue, rehabilitation, and release. Focus on anatomy and conservation as your students transform into mini-rescue biologists watching over their rescued dolphins. In addition, learn about the role CMA plays in rescues with many other species, including manatees, and how we can all work together to protect and preserve these species! This program is $3.00 per student and lasts 45 min.

SUCCESS WITH STEWARDSHIP (6th-12th Grade)

Connect with the estuary ecosystem and identify the ways that humans impact the environment. Learn how you can live a sustainable lifestyle and what Clearwater Marine Aquarium is doing to improve its footprint. Challenge your students to create an eco-conscious coastal city and participate in a project that promotes environmental stewardship. This program is $3.00 per participant and lasts 45 min.

INVESTIGATE DOLPHIN RESEARCH (6th–12th Grade)

Explore how scientists investigate the natural world through examples of dolphin research. Step into the role of a dolphin researcher as students learn about Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s efforts to better understand the wild population of dolphins in our surrounding area through dorsal fin identification.This program is $3.00 per student and lasts 45 min.

LOOK INSIDE THE SQUID! (6th–12th Grade)

Join us as we explore the internal and external anatomy of a squid as you participate in an interactive dissection. Learn about the special adaptations these creatures possess to help them survive and hunt in the dark. Discover the important place squid hold in the food chain and which animals enjoy squid as a part of their diet here at CMA! This program is $8.00 per student and lasts one hour.

WATER QUALITY (6th–12th Grade)

How does chemistry affect biology? We’ll share the importance of daily water quality testing for the resident animals at Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Students will be able to apply what they have learned by performing real laboratory tests and learn about the abiotic factors that provide necessary life support for our rescued and rehabilitated animals.This program is $3.00 per student and lasts 45 min.