Sharks are such fascinating creatures that Discovery Channel dedicates a full week to them each summer. Now, the Georgia Aquarium enhances the learning experience for their patrons with the exhibit, “Planet Shark: Predator or Prey.”

Atlanta audiences are the first to experience the most comprehensive and innovative “out of water” shark exhibition to tour the world.  Planet Shark: Predator or Prey complements the existing collection of more than 70 live sharks, representing 14 different species.  The interactive and engaging exhibition will explore some of the unique relationships humans have forged with one of the world’s most feared predators - the shark.

“Planet Shark: Predator or Prey” will take guests on a journey of engaging discovery—presenting facts, dispelling myths, and providing a better understanding of one of the most misunderstood animals on earth.  The aquarium will further engage visitors with lectures from world-renowned shark experts, shark-themed film festivals, and other interactive opportunities that will enhance the Planet Shark experience.

 Each of “Planet Shark: Predator or Prey’s” multiple galleries is a chapter in the story of this remarkable animal and mankind’s fascination with it.  Often maligned as a mindless killer, the exhibition will provide intriguing insight into shark behavior, explore the interesting connection between humans and sharks, and expose the real threat of extinction that certain shark species are facing.

The exhibit features:

• full-scale shark models cast from real specimens, including an 18-foot Great White shark caught in South Australian waters - the largest caught by recreational fishing

• an extensive collection of real shark jaws, teeth and fossils dating back 350 million years

• shark cages and authentic artifacts from the movie “Jaws”

• n amazing “frozen in time” display featuring a real, frozen 700 lb Bluefin tuna and its natural predator a real frozen 10 ft. adult Mako shark

• stories on human/shark encounters as told by survivors and shark experts

• an examination of their size, biology, hunting strategies and amazing sensory systems

• detailed information on the Great White shark satellite tagging program and other conservation efforts

• issues facing world shark populations due to shark fining and other over-fishing practices. How this will affect the top predator in our oceans and the subsequent impact on the ocean’s food chain.

• interactive, educational displays that include high-definition videos and hands-on experiences

 Also debuting in conjunction with the “Planet Shark: Predator or Prey” exhibition, the Aquarium will feature films from the Blue Oceans Film Festival. Movies will be included with general admission to the Aquarium.

“The Georgia Aquarium is excited to host the world premiere of this ground-breaking stand alone exhibition that celebrates one of the oceans’ most feared, intriguing and complex creatures,” said Anthony Godfrey, president and COO, Georgia Aquarium. “Planet Shark will not only complement our current collection of live sharks, but will also provide our guests with a unique educational perspective on an animal which has reigned over the ocean for more than 450 million years.”

Throughout the run of the exhibition, Georgia Aquarium staff members will be on-hand to answer questions and separate the fact from fiction about sharks. 

Tickets for adults (16-64) are $31.50, seniors (65+): $26.25, children (5-15): $23.50

Ticket prices listed above are for advanced purchases and include Aquarium admission. Special pricing is available for Annual Pass Members, groups and schools. Audio Tours are also available. For complete pricing information and availability visit www.georgiaaquarium.org/.

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