Sharks Dine Like Royalty: Las Vegas Aquarium Feeds Fish Fit for Kings

At the Shark Reef Aquarium in Las Vegas, sharks are treated to a meticulously curated diet that rivals gourmet tourist meals. Lead aquarist Becky O'Brien oversees the feeding of 15 species of sharks three times a week. The menu consists of mackerel, herring, blue runner, and sardines, sourced from wild catches and sustainable fisheries.

The aquarium's shark population consumes over 300 pounds of fish weekly. To ensure optimal health, vitamins are incorporated into the fish, a method O'Brien compares to giving medicine to dogs. This feeding regimen not only nourishes the animals but also serves as a crucial health check for the staff.

Beyond nutrition, feeding sessions offer insights into shark behavior and health. Declining appetite can signal illness or mating interest, especially as males often eat less during breeding season, which runs from March to June. The aquarium also participates in conservation efforts, rewilding endangered zebra shark eggs in Indonesia.

Remarkably, many sharks at the resort are living well beyond their natural lifespan. General curator Jack Jewell noted a sand tiger shark estimated to be between 33 and 36 years old, significantly older than the typical wild maximum age. This highlights the dedicated care provided, ensuring the well-being of these marine predators.