Mote Marine Lab Relocates Hundreds of Aquatic Animals to New Facility

On October 7, 2025, the Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) is set to open its doors to the public, marking the culmination of a massive relocation effort by Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium. Over the past couple of months, crews have been working tirelessly to move hundreds of marine animals, including river otters, sea turtles, manatees, penguins, and sharks, from the facility's previous location on Sarasota's City Island to their new home.

The decision to relocate the aquarium was driven by logistical challenges, as it had become increasingly difficult for visitors to access the facility on the island. By moving the aquarium and education centers farther east, while keeping the research portion on the barrier island, Mote aims to make it easier for the public to engage with marine sciences.

The new Mote SEA facility boasts a range of specialized habitats designed to provide a more authentic environment for the animals. This includes a massive manatee habitat and homes for the aquarium's newest residents, such as the giant Pacific octopus and penguins. The move also allows Mote to offer more opportunities for visitors, school children, and adult learners to explore marine science through hands-on experiences and citizen science programs.

"Within this facility, we will have over 400 different species that will be made up of several thousands of individual animals," said Evan Barniskis, associate vice president for Mote. The relocation process was a complex undertaking, requiring rigorous monitoring, strict protocols, and the highest standard of care to ensure the animals' successful acclimation to their new environment.

As Mote SEA opens its doors, the organization is poised to double its annual visitor numbers, reaching upwards of 700,000 guests. The new facility represents a significant investment, costing $130 million to build, and is a testament to Mote's commitment to advancing marine science education and conservation.