From the Mountains to the Sea: New Arrivals in CMTM’s Aquarium
From the Mountains to the Sea: New Arrivals in CMTM’s Aquarium
This fall, the Live Exhibits team at the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine (CMTM) has been busy! Colin and Emily have cleaned up the gallery and welcomed many new animals into their homes. From crayfish in Tarn (mountain habitat) to lumpfish in Wharf, here’s a look at our new community members here at Thompson’s Point.
Northern Crayfish
Tarn (mountain habitat)
The number of Northern Crayfish has tripled! There are now more than a dozen, including some very large ones. Crayfish are also called mudbugs because they like to dig and hide in the mud. We also have a new Lake Chub, a social little fish that was rescued from a bait shop. Soon we hope to add more fish so it has a school to swim with.
White Sucker fish
Creek
Morty the Musk Turtle and the minnows have a new tankmate: a young White Sucker fish. This shy fish likes to stay on the bottom. Two Blacknose Dace fish, also from a bait shop, joined the school too.
American Eel
River & Pond
No new animals here, but both tanks got a fall refresh. Gary the American Eel, the Salmonids, and the pond animals are ready for visitors.
Acadian Hermit Crab
Tidepool (sandy side)
We added lots of (Ascophyllum) seaweed, which gives animals fun hiding spots. Look closely to find a second Orange Sea Cucumber and a tiny new Acadian Hermit Crab. The crab is small, curious, and already a favorite with visitors!
Painted Anemone
Tidepool (rocky side)
This side is full of (Fucus) seaweed. A beautiful Painted Anemone has joined the tank, it’s the first one we’ve ever had! Two new Seastars also arrived, including one that seems to be a hybrid (a mix of two kinds of seastars - Forbes and Northern Seastar). Scientists call this “hybrid vigor,” which means it may be extra strong and healthy.
Lumpfish
Wharf
Thanks to our friends at Bangs Island Mussels, the wharf now has a new rope covered with Blue Mussels. Big clumps of mussels form a reef where other animals grow, like sponges, worms, and sea plants. Five young Lumpfish have also joined the habitat. Lumpfish are round, bumpy, and very funny to watch, sure to become fast favorites!
Come Visit!
There is so much to explore and learn about Maine’s sea life in From the Mountains to the Sea. We can’t wait for you to meet all of CMTM’s new animal friends!