The Key West Aquarium is proud to educate the public about the marine environment with a focus on our local ecosystems. We house predominately native species of game fish, tropical fish, sea turtles, and stingrays. We also display vital apex predators such as sharks and American alligators with a chance to meet them up close during our tours. The species at the Key West Aquarium include:

Recently, due to the need for public awareness, we started an “invasive species” program. The exotic pet trade has boomed and many owners find they are unable to care for their new pet after a few years, leading to their release in the wild. Many non-native species are reproducing in Florida at an alarming rate, wreaking havoc on our fragile coral reefs and wetlands. In an effort to elevate awareness we house lionfish, iguanas, and a Burmese python. All of these creatures have recently received media attention on the destructive effect they are having on the environment.

Formally known as Bathynomus giganteus, the Giant isopod is a fascinating, secluded creature that lingers and thrives in the coldest, deepest waters of the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans sometimes as far down as 7,000 feet! This isopod, distantly related to the shrimp and the crab, is a bottom feeder that sustains itself consuming the carcasses of whales, fish and squid that collect on the ocean floor.

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Please contact us for additional information regarding educational programs for the Key West Aquarium.