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California bill prevents seabed mining in state waters
California passes a bill supported by the Aquarium, Assemblymember Luz Rivas, and Surfrider that bans destructive mining of mineral deposits on the state’s seafloor.
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From football-sized giant isopods to transparent jellies that glow, the deep sea is brimming with life. View these mysterious and wonderful animals in our newest exhibit — the largest collection of deep-sea animals in North America. Plan your visit or learn more below.
Below the surface of the ocean lies another world — one that is inky dark, icy cold, and filled with curious creatures. This remarkable habitat is hidden from view, accessible only by using innovative technology and robotics.
Between sunlit water and the deep seafloor lies the midwater. Here, fanged fish and transparent jellies dart and drift in a vast sea with no boundaries, no light, and few places to hide.
Thousands of feet below the surface, long-legged crabs, colorful corals, and pancake-shaped octopuses make their homes on the seafloor.
Keep exploring the deep sea with our behind-the-scenes chats with Aquarium staff and scientists, fun online courses, conservation stories, and more.
We’re just getting started in the deep sea. Sign up for Aquarium updates to be the first to know about deep sea discoveries and as new animals are brought on exhibit.
Into the Deep was made possible by the Grainger Family Descendants Fund in honor of David and Juli Grainger.
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From animals that glow to underwater robots, there's always more to explore in the deep sea.
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California passes a bill supported by the Aquarium, Assemblymember Luz Rivas, and Surfrider that bans destructive mining of mineral deposits on the state’s seafloor.
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Elephant fish, Callorhinchus milii, are extraordinary animals both in the deep sea and at Monterey Bay Aquarium.
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Descend to the depths and discuss octopuses, squids and deep-sea research with Dr. Crissy Huffard.
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Through innovations and collaborations, our Film and Video team has successfully captured footage of deep-sea bioluminescence.
Exhibit
Marvel as tuna speed past, sardines swarm in huge, glittering schools and sea turtles swim lazily across the 90-foot window.
Exhibit
Discover an underwater forest of sardines, leopard sharks, wolf-eels and other fishes that weave through swaying fronds of kelp.