Explore Chattanooga Spring 2026

D o sharks glow in the dark? Can a shrimp out-punch a prize fighter? Is there really an animal with two sets of jaws? And what exactly is a lumpsucker? Aquatic rumors and ocean “tall tales” take center stage in the Tennessee Aquarium’s newest gallery, Scuttlebutt Reef . Located in the Ocean Journey building, this imaginative collection of 11 exhibits explores the playful, mysterious, and often misunderstood side of reef life. “Our team has worked hard to create an engaging experience that highlights reef-dwelling species from around the world,” says Aquarium President and CEO Andy Wood. “Guests will discover an amazing collection of animals — including some we’ve never exhibited before.” The gallery’s residents are a colorful cast of marine marvels with surprising abilities and undeserved reputations. Interactive displays present eye-catching “rumors” such as “There are aliens living in the ocean” or “Some fish have legs.” With a simple touch, visitors can reveal the science behind the claim — in English or Spanish — learning that sometimes truth is stranger than fiction. “It’s literally scuttlebutt, or water-cooler talk, in action,” says Thom Demas, vice president and chief husbandry and exhibits officer. “When learning is fun and unexpected, it sticks.” Among the first animals guests meet are Green Moray Eels, often cast as sea monsters in films like The Little Mermaid. While their sharp teeth and sinuous bodies look intimidating, these eels are typically shy and pose no danger to humans. Nearby, the brilliantly colored Peacock Mantis Shrimp challenges assumptions. Despite its name, it’s neither peacock, mantis, nor true shrimp. Armed with a powerful club-like append age, it delivers one of the strongest strikes in the animal kingdom — strong enough to crack shells with explosive force. Visitors can test their own strength against this pint-sized pugilist by striking a padded pressure plate. In the Swell Shark habitat, a sliding colored lens lets guests “put on shark eyes” to see how these thick-bodied sharks appear to glow to one another in deep water.

Jelly enthusiasts will marvel at shimmering comb jellies, while California Sea Hares — marine slugs that

can exceed two pounds — redefine expectations of

slug size. The gallery’s vibrant coral reef centerpiece recreates ecosystems of the Coral Triangle in a 6,000-gallon habitat home to more

than 40 species. Guests can admire the scene through a 16 foot acrylic window or step into a wheelchair-accessible pop-in viewing space for an immersive experience. Arriving at winter’s end, Scuttlebutt Reef offers a colorful, curiosity-sparking escape — and plenty of ocean secrets worth sharing. Advance tickets may be purchased online at www.tnaqua. org or by phone at 1-800-262-0695. The Aquarium, located on the banks of the Tennessee River in Chattanooga, is a non-profit organization. Open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas, the Aquarium and IMAX are accessible to people with disabilities.

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