Shore Sector

Come and learn about Australia's coastal communities and shores!  Come see a recreation of Australia's mangrove forests!  There's a hands-on tide pool and kids always love to play with the creatures that inhabit tide pools, such as sea urchins!

Australia has the third largest area of mangroves in the world and some of the most diverse communities.  These tree and shrub species are adapted to the salty conditions of tidal areas. Mangrove forests provide habitats and nurseries for many fish and form a buffer for estuaries from sediments and for coastlines from storm waves.  They are critical habitats for many species.

Development around coastal cities and towns has contributed to the loss of mangroves, with only 8% of communities growing in protected areas.  They are threatened by continued clearing and development.

So, come visit the Shore exhibit and learn how you can be a part of the solution and not the problem. You'll also get to see many amazing plants and animals that are all part of Australia's coastal communities!