Roundhouse Aquarium

August Newsletter

2011-08-01T15:09:00.001-07:00

Housewarming Party at the Strand House to Benefit the Roundhouse

We are very excited to invite you to the Strand House (117 Manhattan Beach Boulevard) Housewarming party on August 9^th from 7-10pm. All ticket sales and silent auction bids will benefit the Roundhouse Aquarium.
For more information, or to buy tickets, please visit our website: www.roundhouseaquarium.org and click on events and parties.

August is Crab and Lobster Month

Did you know that crabs and lobsters are related to spiders? There are tons of interesting arthropods right off of the Manhattan Beach Pier and inside the Roundhouse. Come check out a few of these arthropods including a California spiny lobster, decorator crabs, hermit crabs, and barnacles right here in the Roundhouse. Make sure to read up on our updated displays and artifact tables for detailed information on these molting creatures. Bring the little ones in during Sea Story time on Sundays at 11:30 for crab and lobster crafts and stories.

Free Field Trips to the Roundhouse

Are you a teacher looking for a Free Field Trip for your Students? The Roundhouse has many grant covered classes for title-1 schools and schools in certain districts. Our highly trained professional educators teach students about marine animals, the importance of keeping our ocean clean, the food chain and many other marine facts. We even go down to the beach for a signs of life beach exploration. All of our classes cover many CA state science standards and we teach classes ranging from K-6^th grade. We also have an outreach program. If you are interested in booking a class, please contact us at the email or phone number to the left. Help us spread oceanic awareness to your students!

July Newsletter

2011-07-01T19:04:00.000-07:00

There’s still time to sign up for the BEST beach Summer Camp EVER!

Where else can you send your kids for fun in the sun and hands-on marine science in the South Bay? The Roundhouse Aquarium has new and exciting summer camps for kids ages 4-12. There is still time to register online! Sign your older kids up for Wilderness Adventure Week! Campers go hiking, kayaking, surfing and participate in many other offsite activities. Check out the Roundhouse website at http://www.roundhouseaquarium.org/summer today to sign up!

July is Echinoderm Month

What in the world is an echinoderm? These spiny skinned animals include sea stars, sea cucumbers, brittle stars, sand dollars and sea urchins. Come to the Roundhouse to learn about and touch these live animals. Check out our updated displays and artifact tables for detailed information on these spiny skinned creatures. Bring the little ones in during Sea Story time on Sundays at 11:30 for sea star crafts and stories.

A Volunteer’s Reflection

By Zoie Nagelhout

I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at the Roundhouse Aquarium. From the sea urchins to the sharks, I loved learning more about the animals and how they are in their natural environments. Talking to the public daily was an interesting and rewarding experience for me. You meet all kinds of people. It is an incredible feeling when you can light up people’s faces by showing or telling them something that they have never seen or heard before. Every time a family or a group comes into the aquarium, you create a sort of relationship with them in the hopes of brightening their day. I loved working at the Roundhouse and being around all of the animals. I would do it again in a heartbeat.

June Newsletter

2011-06-02T10:13:00.000-07:00

Don’t miss out on the Best Summer Ever!

Sign your kids up today for Roundhouse Summer Camp

Where else can you send your kids for fun in the sun and hands-on marine science in the South Bay? The Roundhouse Aquarium, located right at the end of Manhattan Beach Pier has a brand new summer camp program. You can register online and kids ages 4-10 can sign up together! Sign your older kids up for Wilderness Adventure Week! Campers go hiking, kayaking, surfing and participate in many other offsite activities. Check out the Roundhouse website at www.roundhouseaquarium.org/summer today to sign up!

June is Octopus Month

What's the difference between an octopus, octopuses, and octopi? How many arms and tentacles do squid have? Come to the Roundhouse to find out the answers and to view our live octopus. Check out our updated displays and artifact tables for detailed information these intelligent creatures. Bring the little ones in during Sea Story time on Sundays at 11:30 for octopus and squid crafts and stories.

Roundhouse Classes and Outreaches

This year, with the help of the community, the Roundhouse was able to raise enough funds to continue its educational programs. So far, we taught over 13,800 students here at the Roundhouse on our field trip program during the 2010-2011 school year. Most of these classes taught were paid for by grants and donations from people like you! We also traveled to outreaches in areas like La Mirada, Montebello, Southgate, Lynwood and Lakewood and taught squid and fish dissections, pollution prevention and other marine education to inner city high school students. Please consider donating to the Roundhouse so we can continue to spread marine and environmental knowledge to our youth.

May Newsletter

2011-05-01T18:06:00.000-07:00

Don’t miss out on the Best Summer Ever!

Sign your kids up today for Roundhouse Summer Camp
Where else can you send your kids for fun in the sun and hands-on marine science in the South Bay? The Roundhouse Aquarium, located right at the end of Manhattan Beach Pier has a brand new summer camp program. It is easier to register, easier to pick a camp, and kids ages 4-10 can sign up together! Sign your older kids up for our famous Catalina Camp Out! The boy cabins are almost full, and we only have 1 girl cabin this year, so sign up soon! Check out the Roundhouse website at www.roundhouseaquarium.org/summer today to sign up!

May is Shark Month

Are you scared of sharks? You shouldn’t be! Come to the Roundhouse to learn more about these amazing and mystical creatures. Come see our sharks feed on Saturdays at 12:30! Check out our new displays and artifact tables for information the beauty of sharks and the wonder of sharks. Bring the little ones in during Sea Story time on Sundays at 11:30 for shark crafts and stories. We even have some free shark coloring books to pass out!

Co-Director wins AMS Award

Congratulations to our very own Facilities and Co-Director Eric Martin for winning the Distinguished Educator Award for Non-Formal Education from the American Meterological Society. Eric was presented this award on Earth Day here at the Roundhouse Aquarium. Eric has been working at the Roundhouse for over 10 years, taking care of the fish and teaching our youth about how to be responsible environmental citizens. He was chosen for his outstanding educational outreach both at the Aquarium and at local schools. His innovative teaching techiniques keep our classes fresh and exciting. Eric is also an avid whale expert and an amazing photographer. Come in to the Roundhouse and congratulate him for his excellent work. Visit our facebook page to see pics of the ceremony. Way to go, Eric!

April Newsletter

2011-03-31T16:32:00.000-07:00

Earth Month!

Thanks to everyone that came to check out last month's theme, plankton. This month, in celebration of Earth Day on April 22nd, we will celebrate earth month! Check out our displays and artifact tables for detailed information on our amazing earth and the history of earth day. Bring the little ones in during Sea Story time on Sundays at 11:30 for recycled crafts and stories about our earth. Make sure to come to the viewing of "One Day," an original video by Facility Director Eric Martin. Join us on Earth Day, April 22nd at 6pm for this amazing and inspiring 20 min video. A $2 donation per person or $5 per family is appreciated at the door before the show.

All New Summer Camp at the Roundhouse!

Where else can you send your kids for fun in the sun and hands-on marine science in the South Bay? The Roundhouse Aquarium, located right at the end of Manhattan Beach Pier has a brand new summer camp program. It is much easier to register, much easier to pick a camp, and kids ages 4-10 can sign up together! Your kids can even learn to surf the same week that they dissect squid and learn about how to create a healthier ocean. This year, if you sign your child up for more than 1 camp, you can save $50-$100! Check out the Roundhouse website at www.roundhouseaquarium.org/summer today to sign up!

Visit the Roundhouse at upcoming fairs!

Be sure to participate with the Roundhouse in the multiple Eath Day fairs this month. You can visit us at the Earth Day fair in Whittier on April 9th or the Earth Day fair at Polliwog Park in Manhattan Beach on April 16th. Be sure to come to the Roundhouse on Earth Day, April 22nd for a special screening of our very own environmental video "One Day" by Roundhouse Director Eric Martin. This 20 min video is amazing and inspirational. We are asking a $2 per person or $5 per family donation at the door before the show.

March Creature Feature

2011-03-04T17:54:00.000-08:00

Feature Creature

Brine Shrimp

Description: The scientific name for brine shrimp is Artemia. Brine shrimp are a type of plankton. Plankton means drifter. So, like all plankton, they cannot swim against the current. Brine shrimp can grow to be about 1 centimeter long and can live for up to 1 year. Brine shrimp are fed to the invertebrates in the aquarium as they are high in fat!

Defense: Brine shrimp eggs can remain dormant for up to 2 years in dry, oxygen free environments. Once they are placed in salt water, the eggs can hatch within hours.

Feed on: Brine shrimp feed on phyto plankton. These are tiny plantlike algae that live in the ocean. Phytoplankton produce up to 80% of the oxygen on planet earth.

WOW! Brine shrimp are also known as sea monkeys.

March Newsletter

2011-03-04T10:16:00.000-08:00

Theme of the Month!

To spice things up at the Roundhouse, we are celebrating a different ocean theme every month. This month we will focus on some of the smallest creatures in the sea…plankton! Check out our displays and artifact tables for detailed information on plankton. Come look at plankton under the microscope! Bring the little ones in during Sea Story time on Sundays at 11:30 for crafts and stories on plankton. Even listen to one of our expert staff members discuss plankton! Don't forget to keep an eye out for next month's theme, "Our Earth!"

All New Summer Camp at the Roundhouse!

Where else can you send your kids for fun in the sun and hands-on marine science in the South Bay? The Roundhouse Aquarium, located right at the end of Manhattan Beach Pier has a brand new summer camp program. It is much easier to register, much easier to pick a camp, and kids ages 4-10 can sign up together! Your kids can even learn to surf the same week that they dissect squid and learn about how to create a healthier ocean. This year, if you sign your child up for more than 1 camp, you can save $50-$100! Check out the Roundhouse website at http://www.roundhouseaquarium.org/summer today to sign up!

Roundhouse Member Appreciation Night=Huge Success

The Roundhouse wants to send a special "thank you" to all of our members that joined us at our Member Appreciation Night on Feb 27th. Members were able to enjoy hands-on learning about animals from the ocean, detailed information about every tank from our knowledgable volunteers, fun crafts for the kids and delicious dessert donated by our local bakeries! If you would like to become a member, please visit our website at http://www.roundhouseaquarium.org/donate.

February Newsletter

2011-02-02T12:24:00.000-08:00

Member Appreciation Night

The Roundhouse Aquarium would like to invite all of our donors/ members to our first Member Appreciation Night on Sunday, February 27^th from 6:30pm-8:30pm. This family friendly event will consist of one-on-one animal facts and information from our knowledgeable volunteers and staff, hands-on learning, plankton viewing through microscopes, crafts for kids and coffee and dessert for all. If you have donated over $50 in 2010 or 2011, please expect a formal invitation in the mail. If you are interested in donating and would like to attend the event, please contact a staff member ASAP at (310) 379-8117.

We hope to see you there!

Summer Camp at the Roundhouse!

Keep an eye out for the Roundhouse Aquarium summer camp brochure. Go to the Roundhouse website at www.roundhouseaquarium.org/camp on March 1^st to sign up. Summer camp fun includes hands-on marine science and lots of beach time. Children can even learn to surf the same week that they dissect squid and learn about how to create a healthier ocean. This year, if you sign your child up for more than 1 camp, you can save $50-$100!

A few of our amazing supporters! Thank you for all of your dedication to the Roundhouse

From left: John Corrales, Jane Davis, Skylar Tourigni and Heidi Thompson

January Creature Feature

2011-01-08T14:11:00.000-08:00

Kelp Bass
aka Calico Bass

Description: Kelp Bass are brownish to olive green, with light tan blotches. These fish usually hang out alone unless they are feeding. Kelp bass often join together to feed on schools of fishes so they can attack from all angles. Even though they’re called kelp bass, these fish can be found beyond the kelp forest. You can spot kelp bass around various structures, including rocks, pipes and pilings.

Range: Kelp Bass can be found along the Pacific coast, from Oregon to Baja California

Feeding: Baby kelp bass feed on crustaceans. As they get older kelp bass feed on small fishes and squid.

Defense: Kelp Bass have spines on their dorsal fins to protect them from other predators.

WOW!! Larval kelp bass (when they are still in their planktonic stage) settle on blades of giant kelp where they can grow.

January Newsletter

2011-01-03T17:06:00.000-08:00

New Year, New Updates

The Roundhouse Aquarium has been updating its various tanks and displays as well as continuing its fundraising efforts in order to continue to spread oceanic and environmental awareness. We have raised almost half of our goal of $100,000! Thank you for your continued support. We truly appreciate all of the year-end donations. If you donated over $100, please come in to the Roundhouse to see your name on the Member board.

A volunteer’s Journey

by Volunteer Board President Shelby Smith

I remember the first day I walked into the Roundhouse Aquarium; it was a whole new world I was waiting to experience. I’ve always wanted to be a part of an organization that not only gave back to the community but also to the environment and the animals that lived in it. My best friend had told me about the aquarium and I didn’t hesitate for a second that I wanted to join. I was beyond ecstatic to go through the training even though it was just covering all the basics. And from that day, I have enjoyed my time at the aquarium. To me, it’s not just a place to volunteer, it’s my second home. I have enjoyed every second cleaning tanks, feeding fish and even cleaning the protein skimmers (filter for fishy poop). I felt empowered by what I was doing. I know for most, volunteering looks good on your college application, but it becomes more than that, it becomes a part of you who are. Giving back is the best feeling. My experience at the Roundhouse will continue until the day I leave for college and, of course, whenever I come to visit. I have learned so much about myself and what I was capable of doing; I learned that I could dedicate my time to a good cause and to be responsible for lives of others even if they are fish. I have also been given to chance to teach others about our environment. I could never has asked for a better experience than what given at the Roundhouse, and by far, it was totally worth sitting through those two days of training.

December Creature Feature

2010-12-02T19:43:00.000-08:00

Market Squid

Description: Humans often refer to market squid as “calamari”. Squid are in the cephalopod class and are related to octopuses and cuttlefish. They have 8 arms lined with suction cups and two longer tentacles with suction cups at the end that they use to grab food and bring it in to their beak. Market squid can squirt out ink in order to confuse predators. They grow to be no more than 12 inches long and are most likely the most abundant cephalopod along the central California coast.

Diet: Market squid eat crustaceans and small fishes.

Where they are Found: Common market squid are found in most coastal waters in the Pacific Ocean.

WOW!!! Market squid only live for about three years. They have huge mating orgies by the thousands! The females lay many long cylindrical eggs and then die soon after.

December Newsletter

2010-12-02T19:39:00.000-08:00

Winter Carnival Weekend

The Roundhouse will celebrate another carnival weekend on December 18th and 19th from 10am-sunset! This time we have winter-themed crafts, face painting, games, a bean bag toss, a temporary tattoo station, and so much more family fun! This fundraising event is sponsored by Chevron and the donations made will be used to improve and maintain our public education programs. So, be sure to bring your friends, family and a few extra dollars to participate in the games and donate to a great cause!

Elleni Fundraiser a HUGE Success!

Thanks to many community members, the Roundhouse Aquarium received many donations at the Elleni Couture Fundraiser! We appreciate all of your support and want to extend a special thank you to Skylar and her staff for hosting this amazing event.

Holiday Fundraiser at Look! Optometry December 6th

See a clearer picture of how you can support the Roundhouse. Look! Optometry is having a fundraiser on December 6th. 20% of every purchase will be donated to the Roundhouse. This is a great time to use your flex spending! Join us for the reception from 5pm-7:30pm. For a $10 donation you can enjoy wine, hors d’oeuvres, live music, a raffle and participate in a silent auction. Hope to see you there!

Thank you Community Members!

The Roundhouse wants to extend a special thank you to all of the community members that have banded together to help support the Roundhouse. We want to extend a special thank you to Jane Davis and Heidi Thompson for all of their efforts. Because of people like you, we have reached our quarterly goal and will definitely be able to stay opened for free for many months to come. We still need to raise about $70,000. The Holidays are here so we hope you consider making a year-end tax-deductible donation to support the Roundhouse. If you would like more information on what your donations support or how you can help, please visit us online at http://www.roundhouseaquarium.org/donate

November Newsletter

2010-10-30T11:28:00.000-07:00

Volunteer Board

The Roundhouse Aquarium is proud to present our new Volunteer Board. This is a group of dedicated high-school volunteers who wish to lean more and give more to the Roundhouse Aquarium. Each volunteer board member has excelled as a Roundhouse volunteer and has a thorough understanding of how the Roundhouse functions. Each are dedicated to enhancing the Roundhouse. The members of the Volunteer Board include:

Shelby Smith: President, Senior at RUHS
Andy Price: VP, Senior at RUHS
Katie Mignola: Secretary, Sophomore at Vista Mar
Monica Difiori: Social Networker, Junior at Mira Costa
Lauren Hagedorn: Sun Vol. Liaison & Photographer, Sophomore at Mira Costa
Tony Turner: Sat Vol. Liaison & Photographer, Senior at Covina High
Shay Gasperian: Events Coordinator, Sophomore at Mira Costa
Caralynn Fish: Events Coordinator, Sophomore at Mira Costa

Funding Update

The staff, board and volunteers want to extend a large “thank you” to many concerned community members who have generously donated to help keep the numerous Roundhouse programs up and running. The Roundhouse will continue to fundraise and reach out in the community so that you can continue to enjoy learning about native marine life and how to keep our oceans clean for free! If you would like more information on what your donations support or how you can help, please visit us online at www.roundhouseaquarium.org/donate.

Elleni Couture Fundraiser

Join us on Nov. 11th from 6-9pm for food, drinks and a silent auction at Elleni Couture. Elleni Couture is a fabulous gourmetc chocolate and designer shoe boutique located at 1100 Manhattan Ave. All Proceeds will directly benefit the Roundhouse Aquarium.

October Newsletter

2010-09-27T15:46:00.000-07:00

Carnival Weekend at the Roundhouse

Bring your family to the Roundhouse for a special Carnival Weekend Celebration on October 23rd and 24th from 10am-sunset! A few of the fun-filled games and events include; Halloween crafts, a bean bag toss, a temporary tattoo station, a puppet show and so much more family fun! This fundraising event is sponsored by Chevron and the donations made will be used to improve and maintain our public education programs. So, be sure to bring a few dollars to participate in the games and donate to a great cause!

Join the Roundhouse at the Hometown Fair!

The Manhattan Beach Hometown fair is this October 2nd and 3rd on Valley and Drive. Make sure to come stop by the kids area to touch live animals, learn about our programs and have a great time. We hope to see you there!

Water Harvest Festival

The Roundhouse will be participating at the West Basin Water Harvest Festival on October 16th from 10am-2pm. Come visit and learn about how water is recycled, win prizes, and experience the tidepool animals in the Santa Monica Bay.

Roundhouse Fundraiser at Panda Express

Help support the Roundhouse by eating dinner at Panda Express on October 25th. Come in between 5pm and 8pm with a Roundhouse Fundraiser flyer and 20% of the proceeds will directly support the Roundhouse Aquarium. You can pick up a flyer at the aquarium or download one from our website beginning October 11th.

The Art of Giving Event
On Thursday, October 21st from 6-9pm, renowned philanthropist and skincare expert, Dr. Murad, will be selling his artwork at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center. 100% of the proceeds will go to a non-profit of the buyers’ choice. This is a great opportunity to receive beautiful artwork while donating to the Roundhouse! If you are interested in attending or have questions, please email Katie Scott at kscott@murad.com

Roundhouse Outreach Van

2010-09-08T10:29:00.000-07:00

WOW...we finally got the van graphics...

Here's a couple of images of the new outreach van with the new graphics installed...with our two executive directors Val and Eric.

The van was a generous donation from the Manhattan Beach Property Owner's Association.

September Newsletter

2010-09-01T13:49:00.000-07:00

Coastal Cleanup Day, Sept 25th

Join the Roundhouse Aquarium as we participate in the 26th annual Coastal Cleanup Day. This international event brings thousands of volunteers to help clean our beaches and raise awareness about protecting our oceans. Last year over 14,000 volunteers participated and picked up over 300,000 pounds of trash and recyclables! If you would like to join us, just meet at the base of the Manhattan Beach Pier at 9am. Be sure to bring sunscreen, water, a hat and clothes that you don’t mind getting a little dirty. The event ends at 12 noon. This is a great way for students to earn a few extra community service hours and for you to show you care about our oceans and our environment. We hope to see you there!

2010 Field Trips to the Roundhouse!!

Are you looking for a fun and educational place to bring your kids or students to during the school year? The Roundhouse Aquarium offers classes, scout badge programs and birthday parties. Our knowledgeable teachers can accommodate the class or party according to your needs. No matter what the class, we always have fun and we always learn new things. For more information and to book a class or party, check out our website at www.roundhouseaquarium.org.classes or www.roundhouseaquarium.org/parties.

Come see the new Outreach Van – Sept 17, 5-7pm

The Roundhouse’s Educational Outreach Van will be on display from 5-7pm on Friday, September 17th in the south pier parking lot. We’ll have some animals to touch and information about our programs. The purchase and outfitting of the van, as well as outreach classes to low-income schools were made possible by a generous grant from the Manhattan Beach Property Owner’s Association.

August Newsletter

2010-08-03T10:18:00.000-07:00

Thank you Volunteers! Volunteer Appreciation Party

This year, we are thanking our volunteers with a “Just Keep Swimming” Party on Aug. 27th. We want to personally thank all of our current and past volunteers for their contributions to continuing the mission of the Roundhouse and spreading oceanic awareness to all of our guests and campers. They are a true asset to our organization. Since we are a non-profit, our volunteers help with a plethora of behind the scenes work including tank maintenance, fish feedings, squeegeeing the tanks, sweeping and informing all of the womderful public about all of the animals in the tanks. The Roundhouse could not properly function without these volunteers. If you would like to give a small,tax-deductible donation to support the volunteer raffle, (whether it is a gift card from your company to a cake from your restaurant) please call or email Lauren. Thanks!

Want a memorable souvenier that can support marine and environmental education?

When you purchase Roundhouse gear from Café Press, 20% of your purchase directly supports the Roundhouse. We use these donations to bring inner city students on valuable fieltrips to the Roundhouse to teach them about the local marine life and how to become responsible environmental citizens. For some of these students, this is their first trip to the beach! So, get some cool Roundhouse gear, support the aquarium and help educate kids all by going to this website www.cafepress.com/roundhouse_ots and purchasing something. Order them today while supplies last!

Attention Teachers, Scout Leaders and Parents

Are you looking for a fun and educational place to bring your kids or students to during the school year? The Roundhouse Aquarium offers classes, scout badge programs and birthday parties. Our knowledgeable teachers can accommodate the class or party according to your needs. No matter what the class, we always have fun and we always learn new things. For more information and to book a class or party, check out our website at www.roundhouseaquarium.org.classes or www.roundhouseaquarium.org/parties.

July Newsletter

2010-07-01T08:05:00.000-07:00

What can we do about the Oil Spill in the Gulf?

Did you know that oil is still gushing into the ocean after two months!? It is estimated that over 125 million gallons might have already poured into the ocean (Associated Press). Hundreds of birds, sea turtles and fish have already been found covered in oil. Since most of us cannot fly to the Gulf of Mexico to help these animals as well as the people that depend on this area as a way of life, many either feel helpless or put it out of mind. However, there are many ways that we can help. Numerous nonprofit organizations are getting involved and you can help. Defenders of Wildlife, The National Wildlife Federation, Emerald Coastkeeper, and Greenpeace USA are among the nonprofits that you can donate your time or funds to in order to save these animals and the ocean. Its not only the animals that are affected, but plants and algae are also dying off. This is the same precious resource that produces over 80% of the oxygen that we breathe. We hope you consider donating your time and resources to help save our ocean.
A sea turtle on Grand Terre Island, June 8. (Reuters/Lee Celano)

Do you want something to remember your great time at the Roundhouse?

Check out all of the Roundhouse gear, including shirts, hats, bags, and water bottles online at www.cafepress.com/roundhouse_ots.
Order them today while supplies last!

Theres still time! Sign up for Summer Camp at the Roundhouse Today!

The Roundhouse Aquarium is offering fun, inexpensive and educational Summer Camp programs for your children! Our reasonable prices, great location, fun and exciting new camps and knowledgable camp counselors make the Roundhouse a great summer camp choice. For more info, check out our website at www.roundhouseaquarium.org/camp
Sign up today!

June Creature Feature

2010-06-03T13:51:00.000-07:00

Spiny Brittle Star

Description: These Brittle stars often look like worms, however; they are related to sea stars and sea urchins. Brittle stars have five arms that they use to catch food. They usually bury themselves in the sand and leave an arm out to catch food. If an animal gets a hold of an arm, the brittle star releases the arm and can regrow, or regenerate another arm.

Where they are Found: Spiny Brittle stars are found from northern California all the way down to Peru.

Diet: Small animals and organic matter.

Status in the ocean: brittle stars are easily affected by motor oil. Motor oil can get into the ocean from cars leaking oil on the street. The oil then drains into the storm drain and out of the outfall into the ocean. Make sure you recycle your oil instead of illegally dumping it.

WOW!!! Brittle Stars can be found from the sea floor to more than 6,000 feet deep!

June Newsletter

2010-06-03T13:42:00.000-07:00

Theres still time!
Sign up for Summer Camp at the Roundhouse Today!

The Roundhouse Aquarium is offering fun, inexpensive and educational Summer Camp programs for your children! We have new and enticing ocean-themed camps for kids ages 4-13. Sign your child up for Wacky Water Wonder Week or Wilderness Adventure Week. Your younger kids might love our some of our Mini Marine Explorer days like SpongeBob and Patrick Day or Rainbow Fish day. Our reasonable prices, great location, fun and exciting new camps and knowledgable camp counselors make the Roundhouse a great summer camp choice. For more info, check out our website at www.roundhouseaquarium.org/camp Sign up today! Hurry because spots are filling up fast.

Volunteer at the Roundhouse and earn community service hours fast!

Are you looking for a fun way to earn community hours this summer? Volunteer at the Roundhouse Aqaurium Summer Camps! Volunteers help campers with crafts, snacks and activities. For more information and to download an application, please visit our website at www.roundhouseaquarium.org/volunteer. Teens must be at least 14 years old, have completed a volunteer application and attend a mandatory volunteer training on June 11th. For more information, please contact the volunteer coordinator.

Help the Roundhouse Educate Kids at the Beach

The Roundhouse Aquarium is in a competition at Humanity Calls to raise funds to send local and inner city students on field trips to the Aquarium. Please vote to support us! Vote for the non-proft Oceanographic Teaching Stations at www.humanitycalls.org today!

May Newsletter

2010-05-04T19:42:00.000-07:00

Leadership Manhattan and the “Signs of the Sea”

The Roundhouse Aquarium has been fortunate enough to receive new display signs from Leadership Manhattan. These stunning signs will be installed on the front of all of the tanks this month. New displays about habitats, overfishing, plastics in the ocean, and even new volunteer and donor signs will be flooding the aquarium. Not only that, but brand new flat screen televisions will be installed so visitors can view more about the underwater marine world. These displays should be completed by May 15th. Be sure to visit the Roundhouse and become more informed through our new signs of the sea. For more information, go to http://www.signsofthesea.com/.

Summer Camp at the Roundhouse

Are you looking for a fun and exciting, yet inexpensive, summer camp program for your child(ren) this summer? Then check out the Roundhouse Summer Camp programs. We have new and enticing ocean-themed summer camp programs for campers ages 4-13. Do you have teenagers? We also have a great, free summer camp volunteer program for teens ages 14-18. Teens can earn countless commmunity service hours for hanging out at the beach and helping supervise our camps. Our reasonable prices, great location, fun and exciting new camps and knowledgable camp counselors make the Roundhouse a great summer camp choice. For more info, check out our website at http://www.roundhouseaquarium.org/camp
and
http://www.roundhouseaquarium.org/volunteer
Sign up today!

Help the Roundhouse Educate Kids at the Beach

The Roundhouse Aquarium is in a competition at Humanity Calls to raise funds to send local and inner city students on field trips to the Aquarium. Please vote to support us! Vote for the non-proft Oceanographic Teaching Stations at
http://www.humanitycalls.org/
...today!

April Creature Feature

2010-04-05T16:14:00.000-07:00

Brown Pelican

Photo by Paul Blieden

Description: Brown Pelicans are large, brownish-grey birds with vast wingspans and large pouch-shaped bills. They have white heads, yellow eyes and black feet. You can often spot them flying near the surface of the waves or diving for fish. Their keen eyesight allows them to see fish from 20-60 feet high. Brown pelicans rest near the shore on rocks and breakwaters. You might be able to see them flying in flocks in a straight or V-pattern.

Where it is Found: The Brown Pelican can be found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Gulf Coast of North, South and Central America.

Diet: Brown Pelicans eat fish close to the surface of the water including anchovies, herring, Pacific mackerel, minnows and sardines.

Status in the ocean: DDT greatly affected the Brown Pelican so much that it was put on the endangered species list in 1970. It is currently still on the list due to other human impacts such as disturbance and destruction on habitats and pollution such as entanglement in fishing lines.

WOW!!! A pelican’s bill can hold three times the amount of food and water as his stomach can.

April Newsletter

2010-04-05T16:07:00.001-07:00

Earth Day Celebrates 40th Anniversary

Can you believe that Earth Day has been in existence for 40 years? Every April 22nd, people from all over the world get together to celebrate and care for the earth. Earth day began in 1970 by Senator Gaylord Nelson. It started as a nationwide grassroots demonstration on behalf of the environment. Over 20 million people participated in the first earth day. Are you going to participate in the 40th?
There are thousands of opportunities to get involved, either locally, via the web or even in your own home. You can get the kids involved by playing earth day games, making recycled crafts, going on a recycling trip, or simply enjoying nature at the park or at the beach. Some websites that have more information about Earth Day include: http://earthday.net, http://holidays.kaboose.com/earth-day, http://earthday.envirolink.org, http://www.planetpals.com/earthday.html

Celebrate Earth Day with the Roundhouse

Enjoy the wonders of the earth and the ocean at the Roundhouse for free! Join the Roundhouse on the weekend of April 17th and 18th from 10am-sunset for free give-a-ways, carbon footprint measurements and crafts and coloring stations for kids. Donations are always appreciated.

Summer Camp at the Roundhouse

Are you looking for a fun and exciting, yet inexpensive, summer camp program for your child(ren) this summer? Then check out the Roundhouse Summer Camp programs. We have new and enticing ocean-themed summer camp programs for campers ages 4-13. Do you have teenagers? We also have a great summer camp volunteer program for teens ages 14-18. Our reasonable prices, great location, fun and exciting new camps and knowledgable camp counselors make the Roundhouse a great summer camp choice. For more info, check out our website at www.roundhouseaquarium.org/camp. Sign up today!

March Creature Feature

2010-03-01T13:09:00.001-08:00

Eelgrass

Description: This months feature is actually one of the few types of plants to grow in the ocean. Each blade of eelgrass grows to be about 12 inches long. Many animals make their homes in these eelgrass beds. Pipefish, for example, camouflage to look just like the eelgrass blades. Other animals that you might find hiding in this habitat include worms and shrimp. Some smaller animals such as hydroids and others live on the blades of the eelgrass.

Where it is Found:Eelgrass is found in cooler waters of the northern hemisphere.

Diet:Since eelgrass is one of the few flowering plants in the ocean, it photosynthesizes, or produces its own food from the sun’s energy.

Status in the ocean: Eelgrass is currently fairly abundant.

WOW!!! In the 1930’s eelgrass almost completely disappeared from the Atlantic Ocean because it could not survive the unusually high temperature.

March Newsletter

2010-03-01T13:07:00.001-08:00

Living the Green Life
Did you know that the 140 million cars in America are estimated to travel almost 4 billion miles in a day, and according to the Department of Transportation, they use over 200 million gallons of gasoline doing it? Did you realize that Americans use 50 million tons of paper annually, consuming more than 850 million trees? Can you grasp that every day 50 to 100 species of plants and animals become extinct as their habitat and human influences destroy them? After reading these statistics, do you think that one single person can really make a positive impact on the future of the environment?
Yes, you can! For example, energy saved from one recycled aluminum can will operate a TV set for 3 hours, and is the equivalent to half a can of gasoline. If just 25% of U.S. families used 10 fewer plastic bags a month, we would save over 2.5 BILLION bags a year. Glass produced from recycled glass instead of raw materials reduces related air pollution by 20%, and water pollution by 50%. One person who decides to make simple life changes can transform the environment for the better. If you make these environmental changes known, you might spark your friends and neighbors to do the same. So, make a change.
The future is in your hands.
Facts relayed from http://library.thinkquest.org/11353/facts.htm.

Fun in the Sun!!
Roundhouse Summer Camp 2010
Are you looking for a fun and exciting, yet inexpensive, summer camp program for your child(ren) this summer? Then check out the Roundhouse Summer Camp programs. We have new and enticing ocean-themed summer camp programs for campers ages 4-13. Do you have teenagers? We also have a great summer camp volunteer program for teens ages 14-18. Our reasonable prices, great location, fun and exciting new camps and knowledgable camp counselors make the Roundhouse a great summer camp choice. For more info, check out our website at www.roundhouseaquarium.org/camp. Sign up today!

February Newsletter

2010-02-04T16:01:00.000-08:00

Eagle Scouts beautify the Roundhouse
The Roundhouse Aquarium has been receiving a copious amount of enhancements thanks to a generous eagle scout, D.J. Stanfill. As his final project, DJ chose the Roundhouse Aquarium because, “I had many good memories there growing up, and I felt like it was a good opportunity to give back.” DJ has been working with the Roundhouse for almost a year, examining what he could do to assist the aquarium and finalizing his project. In order to prepare, DJ stated, “I wrote a 32 page project proposal complete with specific task descriptions and diagrams. We set up power tools and tables in my backyard and we were able to start work on Saturday, January 9th.” Some of these improvements include a three-shelf display with a Plexiglas case, a PVC pipe structure to hold the brine shrimp, a backside for the old bookshelf, a new bookshelf, a cover for exposed tank piping, and installation of shelves in three display pedestals. At the conclusion of the project, DJ exclaimed, “It felt really good to see all of it come together. It's a great feeling to see the items start out as an idea, and then watch them transform from a diagram to the real thing. And the installments look even better in real life than they do on paper. It also feels great knowing that the Staff and Volunteers at the RHA can put the items to good use. Overall, I'm glad I could help the Roundhouse Aquarium out.” The Roundhouse staff and guests truly appreciate the enhancements to the aquarium. Be sure to stop by and view these improvements!

Leadership Manhattan Beach
The Roundhouse was chosen by Leadership Manhattan Beach to create new displays for the tanks! We will be receiving multiple new displays that will correspond with each tank habitat. Soon, guests will be able to interact more thoroughly with the tanks, continue to increase their knowledge of the ocean and take a close look at the world below us. For more information about this project and Leadership Manhattan Beach, check out our blog at http://roundhouseaquarium.blogspot.com

January Creature Feature

2010-01-05T16:37:00.001-08:00

Bottlenose Dolphin

Description: This dolphin is dubbed “bottlenose” because of its short and stubby beak. The bottlenose dolphin is light grayish in color with a high, curved dorsal or back, fin. Adults can grow from 8-12 feet long and males are usually much larger than females.

Where they are Found: World-wide in temperate and tropical waters. They are usually spotted in harbors, lagoons, estuaries and river mouths.

Diet: Dolphins sometimes group together to catch prey such as fishes, squid and crustaceans. They consume 15-30 pounds of food each day.

Status in the ocean: The bottlenose dolphin is protected in the US by the Marine Mammal Protection Act, however, they are vulnerable to pollution, boats, habitat alteration, and getting caught in fishing gear.

WOW!!! Baby dolphins, or calves, stay with their mother for 3-6 years learning how to catch fish and keep safe.

Manhattan Beach Leadership Program

2010-01-04T10:06:00.000-08:00

Every year since 1992 the Leadership Manhattan Beach program picks a project to help Manhattan Beach. This year the class of 2010 has picked the Roundhouse Aquarium as the recipient of their efforts.
The Leadership Manhattan Beach class will be developing visual aids for the aquarium to provide educational awareness of the Santa monica Bay and the ocean environment.
Please come back as we will update you on the progress of this wonderful project.

And thank you Manhattan Beach Leadership class of 2010 for doing this project !!!!

January Newsletter

2010-01-04T10:05:00.001-08:00

Whales off of the Pier!

Have you ever spotted a whale off the pier? December through April is a great time to see gray whales in Manhattan Beach during their migrations from Alaska to Baja, California and back. But, how do you know if the whale you spot is a gray whale? Gray whales can grow to be about 50 feet and can live to be 50-60 years old. They are grayish in color and lack a dorsal fin. Gray whales also have two nostrils, or blowholes, on the top of their head, which creates a distinct V-shape blow if the winds are calm enough. They usually feed on shrimp-like creatures called amphipods. These planktonic creatures live in the muddy bottoms of the Pacific Ocean. So, gray whales come in close to shore to feed and can often be seen right off of the pier. Bring your binoculars next time you visit the aquarium! Other mammals that you might spot in the Santa Monica Bay include blue whales, the biggest animal in the world, fin whales, humpback whales, orca whales (if you get lucky!), risso’s dolphins, common dolphins, sea lions, and of course, bottlenose dolphins.

New Years Resolution
A great new years resolution is to donate to charity. How about the Roundhouse? Your donations help keep the Roundhouse open free of charge. It keeps the animals, like our wolf eels and garibaldi, healthy and safe. If you donate $25 or more, you are eligible for some great Roundhouse gear, including stickers, magnets and your name up on the aquarium wall! Check out the Roundhouse donation website at www.roundhouseaquarium.org/donate.
Your small donation can make a big difference!

Leadership Manhattan Beach
The Roundhouse was chosen by Leadership Manhattan Beach for their annual project! To follow their work improving the Roundhouse, check out our blog at http://roundhouseaquarium.blogspot.com

December Creature Feature

2009-12-02T11:04:00.000-08:00

SCUBA Diver

Description: Divers have long limbs each ending with five digits, a round skull, a short nose, good binocular vision and are often covered in a wet suit. They are related to other marine mammals such as dolphins, whales, seals and sea lions.
Where they are Found: World-wide from shallow waters to 190 feet deep (for scientific research). Average divers range from 30-80 feet.
Diet: Their wide diet varies with each individual. Most are omnivores and many do not eat seafood.
Status in the ocean: Can be found year round but sightings increase on Saturdays and Sundays.
Reproduction: Nearly impossible in a full wetsuit.
WOW!!! SCUBA is an abbreviation for Self Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus.

December Newsletter

2009-12-02T11:01:00.000-08:00

Green Ways to Celebrate the Holidays

The winter season is a time for holiday decorations, hot cocoa, caroling and of course, endless presents! This, of course, means non-stop shopping and empty wallets. Have you ever thought about how much waste is produced during the holidays? The wrapping paper, the amount of energy it costs to transport gifts, the gas and CO2 emissions released when you have to drive all over town to find that perfect present that is packaged in excess paper. Is there any way to celebrate the holidays while simultaneously caring for the earth? A few ideas that you can do to participate in an earth friendly holiday include:

· Instead of giving presents, donate to a charity in honor of someone. (You can even donate to the Roundhouse!)
· Carpool to the store with friends and family.
· Order your presents on www.greenraising.com- the proceeds go to a charity of your choice (like the Roundhouse).
· Make sure to bring your own reusable bag when you shop.
· Purchase antiques, tickets to a show or game to lessen environmental impacts.
· Gift wrap presents in old newspaper and magazines or catalogs.
· Put up LED holiday lights on and in your home.
· Re-gift- it’s good for the environment and no one will know!
· Give the gift of doing instead of giving presents. Offer to wash someone’s car, clean the house, babysit, or walk their dog!

Winter Craft Weekend
Come join the Roundhouse for a festive weekend filled with Holiday and Ocean fun! Bring the whole family on Saturday, December 19th and Sunday, December 20th from 10am-sunset to this wonderful event sponsored by Chevron. While here, you can participate in holiday games, listen to holiday stories, create festive bookmarks, color holiday cards and learn more about the ocean. We hope you and your friends will get into the holiday spirit and celebrate the winter season with us!

Fine Art Photography

2009-11-06T13:15:00.001-08:00

Purchase some beautiful fine art photography for your office or home...
and at the same time donate something to the Roundhouse Aquarium...

Go to: http://www.roundhouseaquarium.org/fine%20art%20photography.html

to see the current images available for your donation to the Roundhouse Aquarium...

Thanks from the staff and board of directors of the Roundhouse Aquarium...

Creature Feature - Wolf Eel

2009-11-05T07:20:00.000-08:00

Wolf eel

Description: Wolf eels have a strong , powerful jaw used for crushing. Although they aren’t the cutest of animals, they look much meaner than they are. They are excellent hiders and their tails can extend to 8 feet! These slender fish are gray with dark spots along their backs. They can be found in shallow waters to as deep as 700 feet.
Defense: The wolf eel has strong jaws to crush urchins and is often found hiding in caves and crevices to stay away from predators.
Where they are Found: Wolf eels are found from northern Baja California to Kodiak Island, Alaska and west to Russia and south to the Sea of Japan.
Diet: Wolf eels eat a wide range of food including, crabs, sand dollars, sea urchins, snails, mussels, clams and fish.
WOW!!! Wolf eels are not eels at all. They are one of five species in the wolf-fish family!!

November Newsletter

2009-11-05T07:17:00.000-08:00

An Ocean of Thanks
Have you thanked the ocean today? Maybe it’s time that you did. Did you know that the ocean provides over 80% of the oxygen that we breathe? The ocean also soaks up more than 2 billion tons of the globe's gaseous carbon pollutants, most of which humans put into the atmosphere. It provides food as well as jobs to millions of people every day. The ocean also offers many of the ingredients for today's and tomorrow's medicines. The ocean not only helps us breathe, eat, and stay healthy, it also supports the economy. One recent analysis has shown that if we had to pay for all of the goods and services that the ocean provides, such as regulating atmospheric gases, cycling nutrients, producing food, raw materials, and recreation, the cost would be about US $21,000 billion per year! (http://www.nalis.gov.tt/Agri/Agri_ocean.htm) The ocean is something all creatures should be thankful for everyday. However, human actions are abusing and overusing this fragile ecosystem. We need to realize how important the ocean is and learn how to protect it. Come to the Roundhouse to learn more and see how you can help!
Fall Craft Weekend Success!

Thanks to Chevron, the Roundhouse Aquarium had another successful Fall craft weekend! On October 17th and 18th families and friends came to this fun-filled free event! We celebrated the Fall season by making Halloween bags, reading scary stories, and decorating delicious cookies. This is the fifth year that Chevron has made a generous donation to support the craft weekends at the Roundhouse Aquarium and we appreciate their continued sponsorship. If missed out on this free event, don’t fret! The Roundhouse will celebrate the winter holidays during our winter craft weekend on December 19th and 20th. Come in anytime from 10am-sunset to decorate winter cookies, make holiday and ocean crafts and read fun fish stories!

Creature Feature

2009-10-01T09:58:00.000-07:00

Globe Crab

photo from www.montereybayaquarium.org/animals

Description: The globe crab has a white shell with dark pink and red markings on its carapace and legs. It only grows to about 3 inches, which makes it very easy to camouflage by burying itself in the sandy ocean bottom. The globe crab has a bulbous shaped shell, hence the name globe crab.
Defense: The globe crab is excellent at camouflaging in the sand.
Where they are found: Globe crabs are found from central California to Baja California.
Diet: Like most crabs, globe crabs eat organic matter, or detritus, and other invertebrates.
WOW!!! The globe crab spends most of its day hiding in the sand. When it isn't hiding, it scuttles in numerous directions to confuse its predators.

October Newsletter

2009-10-01T09:57:00.001-07:00

International Day of Climate Action

On October 24, 2009, people all over the world will meet and demonstrate to pressure their governments to take effective action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Over 72 countries are involved in this movement and you can be a part of this world changing event. The focus of this event is on the number 350, as in parts per million, the level scientists have identified as the safe upper limit for CO2 in our atmosphere. We're currently at 389 and rising. The South Bay Climate Action Group is planning to form a human tide line at the back of the beach between Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach. This line will represent the impact of sea level rise from climate change in our areas. If you are interested in attending, please plan to meet at the Manhattan Beach pier at 3pm on October 24th. We hope that you will join us in making this an event that will inspire the world to rise to the challenge of the climate crisis. For more information on the International Day of Climate Action, visit http://www.350.org/. More information about this local event can be found if you log on to: http://sb350.pbworks.com/.

3 Simple Ways to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions
1. Keep your car in good condition and drive less often
2. Unplug electronics when not in use
3. Turn off the lights when not in the room
http://www.envirorentals.com
Water Harvest Festival- Free Family Fun!

West Basin Municipal Water District is hosting its 11th annual Water Harvest Festival at the Edward C. Little Water Recycling Facility on Saturday, October 24th from 10am – 2pm. This free event shares information about how to conserve water. This year’s theme is water reliability, focusing on the seven wonders of California’s Water World. You and your family can travel to all seven of the wonders (booths) to learn about where our water comes from and how it travels to your home. There are even raffles and prizes. Bring the whole family and be sure to stop by the Roundhouse booth!

September Newsletter

2009-09-11T08:45:00.001-07:00

Come Celebrate 30 Years with the Roundhouse

The Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab and Aquarium operated by Oceanographic Teaching Stations (O.T.S.) has been a successful non-profit organization since its beginning in 1979. We have always been open to the public free of charge and continue to educate children of all ages about the ocean and its inhabitants. The past thirty years have brought many new and exciting changes to the Roundhouse. We continually update the exhibits in the aquarium so every visit is an exciting and new experience. Our summer camps and classes are consistently transforming so we can have fun and teach children about the latest environmental and concerns. We have even expanded our outreach program to include a new van so we can spread environmental knowledge and awareness even further.
We at the Roundhouse and O.T.S. are proud of our achievement these past 30 years and want you to come celebrate with us. You are invited to our Open House Celebration here at the Roundhouse Aquarium on October 9th from 7:30-9:00pm. We will be serving light hors d’oeuvres and beverages, kindly donated by Rock n’ Fish Restaurant. We will also have a fundraising raffle with prizes donated from restaurants and stores around Manhattan Beach as well as a fine art photography fundraiser from professional photographers who are also a very integral part of the Roundhouse Aquarium. Please come join in the festivities. Reservations are not required!

Coastal Cleanup Day is Saturday, September 19th

Everyone is invited!! Join us anytime between 9am-12pm at the Manhattan Beach Pier ready to clean the beach. Last year, nearly 400,000 volunteers collected more than 6.8 million pounds of trash in 100 countries and 42 US states during the 2008 International Coastal Cleanup effort. This is the largest volunteer event in the world! It bonds environmental citizens around the globe to express our care and concern for the oceans. We hope to see you on the 19th.

August Creature Feature

2009-08-11T17:10:00.000-07:00

Horn Shark

Description: The horn shark has brownish-gray skin with black spots and ridges along each eye. It has a spine or horn located in the front of each dorsal fin.

Defense: It has spines and can camouflage.

Where they are Found: Horn sharks are found from central California to Baja California.

Diet: These sharks are nighttime feeders. They feed on fish, squid, crabs and sea urchins.
WOW!!! The horn shark lays spiral shaped eggs that they wedge between rocks for protection.

August Newsletter

2009-08-05T07:59:00.001-07:00

TAKE ACTION
No matter where you live, you can impact the ocean… for better or worse. There are actions we can all take every day that will help to keep our ocean a healthy and thriving place. These are examples of small steps that you can take to do your part in ocean conservation and reduce energy consumption. It can be your way to say “Thank you ocean”.
• Conserve energy. Turn off lights, radio, or TV when you are not in the room.
• Carpool, walk, ride a bike, or take public transit. Even one day a week can make a difference.
• Bring your own reusable cup because disposable cups can end up as marine debris.
• Use reusable containers for your lunch items and carry them in your own cloth bag or lunchbox.
• Save trees and produces less trash at the same time! Use both sides of the paper when writing or printing.
• Going on a boat? Bring your trash back to the dock with you and secure your items so nothing goes overboard.
• Each trip to the river or beach you can help the ocean. Clean up and properly dispose of items in trash and recycling cans… even if it is not yours, please pick it up!
• Invest in a reusable water bottle instead of using plastic one-use bottles.
• Cut up plastic 6-pack rings before you recycle, or choose to buy items that are not packaged with 6 pack rings.
• Keep our beaches clean! Get involved in Beach Clean-ups!
• Teach children to respect nature and the environment. Take them on hikes, beach exploring, or camping. Help them plant a tree, pick up litter, or learn about the ocean.

Remember that one person can make a difference. Small accomplishments add up quicker than you might think.

THE OUTREACH VAN IS PURCHASED !!!!!

2009-07-09T11:48:00.000-07:00

Several months ago we announced a major grant that was received from the Manhattan Beach Property Owner's Association. The grant was to operate an outreach program where the Roundhouse Aquarium would take the aquarium experience to the schools in the Los Angeles basin area.

The first milestone in the grant has been acheived....we now own a van to accomplish the outreach program !!!

Here's a picture of Valarie Hill and Eric Martin, our aquarium co-directors, taking delivery of the van from Cerritos GMC...that's Val and Eric in the center....

The van is now being processed...first step is to coat the inside of the van to prevent rusting....next step is to design graphics for the outside of the van...then we have to install chillers and a touch tank...so we will be updating you on the progress as we meet the milestones to have the van ready for the school sessions that start this fall.

If you have any questions about our outreach program and might want to schedule a class with us...please call Val or Dawn at 310-379-8117....we will bring the Roundhouse Aquarium experience to your classroom.

July Newsletter

2009-07-01T17:51:00.000-07:00

Guess who has the most powerful jaw on the planet?

SHARKS have the most powerful jaw on the planet! Although sharks have the most powerful jaw, they cannot chew their own food. A shark bites its food with its lower jaw first and then its upper jaw. It tosses its head back and forth to tear loose a piece of meat which it swallows whole. Sharks never run out of teeth and they can grow and use over 20,000 teeth in its lifetime! But not all sharks use their jaws to eat meat. Some sharks are actually quite harmless! Oddly enough, the most harmless sharks tend to be the largest! The basking shark, the whale shark, and the megamouth sharks all fit this description. These huge sharks eat plankton, a tiny shrimp-like creature found in the ocean.
The perception of sharks as dangerous animals has been popularized by the popular fictional works about shark attacks, such as the Jaws film series. So, next time you go to the beach and are scared of going in the ocean because of sharks, don’t be. Sharks aren’t there to hurt you.

Sign up for Summer Sea Camp at the Roundhouse!
Inquire within, call us at (310) 379-8117, or visit our website at www.roundhouseaquairum.org/camp

June Creature Feature

2009-06-10T18:16:00.001-07:00

California Mussel Clam

http://www.montereybayaquarium.org/animals/

Description: Mussel clams form in large colonies. To eat, the mussel opens its shells tiny hairs, or cilia, draw in water carrying tiny particles of food. The California mussel attaches to rocks by fibers called byssal threads. These threads are produced in liquid form by the byssal gland. A large mussel moves by breaking old threads, then attaching new ones to another spot; a small mussel creeps around on its foot.

Defense: Mussels take over in tidepool areas and areas where they can use their strong byssal threads, like near crashing waves. They form large groups and out compete for space. However, lobsters, crabs and sea stars eat them in areas where waves don’t pound as hard.

Where they are Found: California mussels can be found from Alaska to Baja California.

Diet: California mussels love to eat detritus, or plant and animal waste, and living plankton.

WOW!!! It takes three years for a California mussel to grow to full size, about 5 inches.

June Newsletter

2009-06-03T14:10:00.000-07:00

The Exciting Adventures of a Roundhouse Intern
A Short Story with a Happy Ending
By Kristen Boysen

My favorite thing this spring was my time spent at the Roundhouse Aquarium. As an intern, I got to see in the inner-workings of the aquarium- from teaching classes, to chopping up squid, to feeding the sharks, to cleaning the eel tank. It was a great opportunity especially since I want to go into a marine-science career. I learned the basics of working with marine animals, which is an important skill for marine scientists. I also really liked working with the classes and teaching them about our planet. The Roundhouse kept me busy! But, it was great, I learned a lot, and I would recommend it to anyone!

Fun with Field Trips
My Experience Teaching at the Roundhouse Aquarium
by Katie Russell
During my semester as an Educational Intern not only did I teach about the ocean, I learned about it too! My experience at Roundhouse Aquarium has been so great—I love working with kids and learning more about our oceans. My favorite thing to teach is the Sea Star and Sea Cucumber part of the field trip; it’s so fun to see how excited kids get about touching live sea creatures. Roundhouse has been such a valuable experience for me, and I can’t wait to keep learning about the ocean and sharing my experience with others.

Sign up for Summer Sea Camp at the Roundhouse!
Inquire within, call us at (310) 379-8117, or visit our website at www.roundhouseaquairum.org/camp.

Looking for suggestions....

2009-05-22T13:51:00.000-07:00

I administer this blog for the Roundhouse Aquarium....and would love to get your comments....what do you want to know....what can we do better....do you like the blog....please let me know so I can improve the blog....thanks

just e-mail me at:

admin@roundhouseaquarium.org

May Creature Feature

2009-05-22T13:41:00.000-07:00

Ocean Sunfish

Description: Ocean sunfish are also known as Mola Molas. These huge, flat silvery-gray fish can grow to be over 5,000 pounds! Ocean sunfish grow from tiny eggs and can grow to be 10 feet long and 14 feet high, from dorsal fin to anal fin. They have a truncated tail fin referred to as a clavus—a scalloped fringe of muscle along their blunt rear end, which they use as a rudder. These fish are the heaviest bony fish in the world!

Defense: Their sheer size makes the ocean sunfish less susceptible to predators. However, they are hunted by sea lions, sharks and killer whales.

Where they are Found: Ocean sunfish can be found in ocean waters above 50 degrees F all over the world. They can often be seen basking in the sun near the surface of the water but do swim to much deeper depths.

WOW!!! Mola Molas are related to pufferfish!

May Newsletter

2009-05-05T11:52:00.001-07:00

Weeds of the Sea

Your only experience with seaweed may have been when it got tangled around your leg when you were swimming in the ocean. But did you know that seaweed is not a weed at all. It is actually a form of algae that plays an integral role in the lives of every living thing in this world. Seaweed can be found as an ingredient in everyday items, including toothpaste, shampoo, flour, macaroni and cheese, make-up and even flaming hot Cheetos! Seaweed proteins, also known as carageenan or algin, is an emulsifer or thickening agent. The sugars from this algae help to keep your ice cream from getting clumpy and make your mac and chesse extra creamy. Giant kelp, a common type of seaweed found off the coast of CA, helps reduce the afternoon chop of the waves from the wind that surfers often complain about while providing shelter and food for the local marine animals. This specific type of seaweed can grow up to one foot per day! Seaweed also provides every breathing thing over 75% of the oxygen needed to survive. So, these “weeds” are actually vitally important to animal survival.
However, numerous kelp forests are in danger. Pollution from storm drains and run-off kill this algae. So what can you do to help? Simple, care for the earth. Throw your trash in the trash can, recycle, bring in reusable bags, pick up trash, the list goes on. I bet you didn’t know that these little lifestyle changes really do help you breath a little better! So, next time you get your leg wrapped around a piece of kelp, embrace it and be thankful for this amazing “weed.”

April Newsletter

2009-04-03T12:23:00.000-07:00

Earth Day

Come Celebrate Earth Day with the Roundhouse!
Join us on April 18th and 19th for environmental crafts, stories, and to learn more about how we can help the ocean.
We’ll also be at Pollywog Park April 18th for the Manhattan Beach Earth Day Celebration, stop by our booth.

Celebrate the Earth and everything in it!
Earth Day Earth Day is April 22nd, a day to celebrate the air, the waves and everything in between. So what can we do to create a healthier earth? Here are 5 simple things you can do every day to save the earth:
1. Use a reusable bag when you shop. It reduces waste and most of these bags are inexpensive. Keep these bags in your car so that you remember them next time you go to the store!
2. Throw your trash in the trash can! Sounds too easy but over 6 million tons of marine debris enter the ocean through the storm drains because people do not throw their trash away.
3. Don’t let go of balloons! No, they do not float up into outer space! Thousands of balloons end up in the ocean and can harm or kill many marine animals that mistake them for food.
4. Precycle!! Buy products in bulk or with less packaging or recyclable packaging to reduce waste. Remember also to recycle your plastics, aluminum, paper and cardboard.
5. Tell others about the importance of keeping our earth clean! If we can spread the news, we can create a healthier earth for ourselves and our children.
For more info on what you can do to help, check out these websites:
http://ww2.earthday.net/
www.earthday.gov

March Newsletter

2009-03-05T14:00:00.001-08:00

Its History!
The Story of the Manhattan Beach Pier

The Roundhouse will be celebrating its 30th anniversary this November. We are very proud to be a part of this great city, spreading environmental and marine awareness to everyone that visits. After 30 years, you are probably used to seeing the aquarium at the end of the pier, but have you ever thought about what used to be inside this “roundhouse”?
The Manhattan Beach Pier was built in 1901 with iron crisscross railroad ties. It was 900 feet long and a very poor construction especially compared to the flourishing Redondo Beach Pier built in 1888. In 1914, the Manhattan Beach Pier and Beach Association was formed and began construction on a grand cement fishing pier in 1916 to attract tourists. The Roundhouse building itself opened on July 4th, 1922 and offered a bait shop, tackle rental, and restaurant. A 200 foot extension was added to the end of the pier in 1928! The pier was booming with an abundance of fish, large and small, for everyone, including the seabirds. On January 9th, 1940 a huge storm came and wiped out 90 feet of the pier extension. It was never rebuilt and by 1941 the rest of the extension was washed away. In 1953, engineers declared that the pier was in need of urgent repairs. The pier and Roundhouse received small renovations throughout the many years that it was in existence.
In 1979, Judge Richard Fruin established the Oceanographic Teaching Stations and the Roundhouse Aquarium. He still serves on the board today. The Roundhouse has undergone numerous changes since it began but the largest occurred in 1991 when the pier was torn down and completely renovated. During that time, the aquarium was relocated to El Segundo. The Roundhouse Aquarium reopened its doors in July of 1992 and was modeled after the original design of 1920. In 2002, the famous 3,500 gallon shark tank was added to the Roundhouse Aquarium and numerous renovations took place to enhance the inside of the Aquarium. The Roundhouse Aquarium currently has over 75 species of marine animals all local to the Santa Monica Bay. We are opened for free so come visit any day of the week. Next time you walk on the pier, remember to bask in its history and make new memories. To find out more about the pier, check out the book:
Manhattan Beach Pier, by Jan Dennis.

Major Grant Received by Roundhouse Aquarium

2009-03-03T09:19:00.000-08:00

The Manhattan Beach Property Owner's Association (MBPOA) presented a check for $100,000 to the Oceanographic Teaching Stations, Inc (OTS), the organization that operates the Roundhouse Aquarium. The check was presented at the Manhattan Beach city council meeting on February 17, 2009. MBPOA Board President Tom Shoebotham tells the city council and public about the grant in this photo of the presentation...present in the photo are members of the OTS and MBPOA boards of directors as well as the co-directors of the Roundhouse Aquarium.

The funds will be used to expand the outreach program that the Roundhouse Aquarium operates. The funds will allow the Roundhouse Aquarium to purchase and outfit a new vehicle to take the aquatic creatures to the schools and it will provide funds to teach outreach classes at title one schools in the Los Angeles County area.

You can see a wonderful article about the project and grant that appeared in the Daily Breeze written by Andrea Woodhouse at this link:
Taking the Sea on the Road

February Creature Feature

2009-03-03T08:50:00.000-08:00

Two-Spotted Octopus

Description: A two-spotted octopus has eight arms with suctions cups that it uses to crawl and catch food. It is usually gray, olive-brown or reddish in color. If the octopus is in danger, it may jet away using its siphon. Two blue, eyelike spots just below its eyes give the octopus its name.

Defense: An octopus is one of the most intelligent animals. It can change its color and texture to blend in with its surroundings, shoot ink to distract predators, bite with its sharp beak, use its siphon to swim away very rapidly, and hide under rocks and crevices.

Where it is Found: The two-spotted octopus can be found from northern Baja California to central California.

Diet: These octopi use their sharp bird-like beak to pierce their prey’s exoskeleton. They like to eat limpets, snails, clams, hermit crabs and small fishes.

WOW!!! An octopus only lives for about 3 years!

February Newsletter

2009-02-04T15:36:00.001-08:00

Let them Eat (sustainable) Fish

Do you know where your seafood comes from or if the fish that you are eating has high levels of toxins? Become a conscious consumer and know how your choices affect your life as well as life in the ocean.
Fish is the primary food source for over 10% of the world’s population so eating sustainably caught fish is not only important to the fish populations themselves but to the millions who depened on them. Eating sustainably caught fish helps ensure the survival of a fish population and the welfare of the many people whose livelyhood depends on those healthy numbers.
So what makes a fish sustainable? A sustainably caught fish is a species of fish that is abundant in number, is well-managed, and is caught or farmed in environmentally friendly ways. Make sure to avoid seafood that are few in number, have high levels of mercury, and are caught in destructive ways. A few to always avoid are sharks, swordfish, Chilean seabass, bluefin tuna and orange roughy. A quick and easy way to tell if the fish you’re eating was caught sustainably is to stop by the Roundhouse and pick up a seafood watch pocket guide. Researchers at The Monterey Bay Aquarium have created this guide for you to know what seafood has been caught sustainably and what you should avoid. You can also check out the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch Program at www.mbayaq.org key word: seafood watch.

Ways to say “I love you” to the Ocean
• Use reusable bags when you go shopping to save the lives of marine animals
• Pick up after your pet so you don’t get marine animals sick.
• Throw your trash in the trash can to reduce runoff.
• Know where your food comes from. Be sure to eat sustainable seafood.

January Creature Feature

2009-01-16T10:39:00.002-08:00

Hermit Crabs

Description: A crab that can be found living in abandoned snail shells or other empty mobile containers. A hermit crab’s first two legs have been modified into pinchers. Hermit crabs require a shell to live in because their abdomen (tail region) is actually soft. When a hermit crab grows in size, it must find a new, larger shell to live in. Hermit crabs can be found in rocky shores and sandy beach habitats.

Defense: Hermit crabs will hide within their shell for protection.

Where they are Found: These crabs can be found in saltwater at depths from shallow coral reefs and shorelines to deep sea bottoms. Some species can even be found on land. Hermit crabs live in the wild in colonies of 100 or more.

Diet: Hermit crabs will feed on small bits of food that they find on the bottom of the ocean. Sandy bottom hermit crabs have also been known to filter feed.

WOW!!! Hermit crabs can make their homes out of old cans, pieces of trash or anything else that they can fit their tail into!

January Newsletter

2009-01-04T15:18:00.000-08:00

A Volunteer’s Journey
“The heat from the sun could be felt on the backs of our necks. The bag in my left hand had a good load of recyclables and the bag in my friend, Jackson’s hands contained trash of every kind. We had been on the beach for only a couple of hours, doing our duty to our community and our oceans. We were helping to clean the beach as part of The Roundhouse Aquarium’s annual Beach Cleanup in September. It is a chance for the people of our community to do their part for the beach environment they cherish so dearly. The Roundhouse has been a major part of our community since its founding in 1980. The Roundhouse has always gone out of its way to enlighten and educate those who visit the beaches daily about the major problems of littering as well as the wonders of the sea. It was thanks to the Roundhouse and Heal the Bay that our beach was cleaned. Families could be seen toting young ones and trash bags, making the day a family event. Children ran amuck, competing to see who got the most trash. Coastal Cleanup Day was a huge success, eradicating cigarette butts and plastic water bottles from the sands beneath our feet. We did our part for the community, and had a great time and, once again, the Roundhouse helped to make our beaches clean and beautiful.
I have been volunteering at the Roundhouse for over a year now.
I normally work in the Roundhouse itself at the end of Manhattan Beach’s pier. I help keep the tanks clean, check on the health of the sea life in the tanks, and talk to young and old about what I have learned. The Roundhouse has encouraged me to make people aware of the state of our environment. Now, whenever I see a person leave trash behind, I pick it up and throw it away. I also get my friends more involved in the community. I enjoy volunteering at the Aquarium, but being on the beach for the clean up on this hot and sunny day really brought home to me why I help - it’s all about maintaining the gift of the beach and the ocean, literally at our community’s feet.” ~Ben Whistler

New Year’s Resolutions to Help the Ocean
• I will use reusable bags instead of plastic bags when shopping
• I will recycle my bottles, cans, newspapers and magazines
• I will buy local products as much as possible
• I will donate to a worthy non-profit organization to support their efforts (like the Roundhouse Aquarium)

December Creature Feature

2008-12-15T15:21:00.000-08:00

Spider Crabs

Description: Spider crabs have 10 long legs, including their pinchers, or claws which they use to catch prey and for defense. Spider Crabs have Spines and bumps covering the carapace, or body. They body of a spider crab can grow up to 7 inches in males and 5 inches in females. Adult male spider crabs have bigger claws and longer legs than females.

Diet: Spider crabs are carnivorous scavengers. They will eat anything on the ocean bottom, living or dead.

Where they are Found: These crabs can be found from Baja, CA to the south to Point Reyes, CA to the north anywhere from 20-500 feet deep.

Defense: Spider crabs have claws that they use to eat as well as to defend themselves. Their bodies are also covered with spines and bumps. A thin film of fuzzy green algae grows over the carapaces of adult spider crabs.

WOW!!! Spider crabs are also called sheep crabs. Female sheep crabs can store anywhere from 125,000 to 500,000 eggs at a time.

December Newsletter

2008-12-01T13:34:00.001-08:00

Manhattan Beach Holiday Pier Lighting

The City of Manhattan Beach will host their annual pier lighting for the holidays on Saturday, December 6th from 4:30-6:30pm. Be sure to come to this free event! At the event, you can visit Santa Claus, enjoy musical entertainment, and watch the pier light up for the holidays. Judge Dick Fruin, founder of the Roundhouse Aquarium, will be speaking at the pier lighting. We will be kicking off our 30th anniversary in Manhattan Beach. So, be sure to come to the Roundhouse Aquarium to touch the marine animals, see the native fish, and watch the shark feeding at 12:30. We will be open from 10am–7:30pm and we hope to see you at the Roundhouse to Celebrate the Holiday Season and our 30th anniversary.

Roundhouse Winter Holiday Craft Extravaganza
Come join the Roundhouse for a festive weekend filled with Holiday and Ocean fun! Bring the whole family on Saturday, December 20th and Sunday, December 21st from 10am-sunset to this wonderful event sponsored by Chevron. While here, you can participate in holiday games, listen to holiday stories, create festive bookmarks, color holiday cards and learn more about the ocean. We hope you and your friends will get into the holiday spirit and celebrate the winter season with us!

Creature Feature for November

2008-11-12T11:18:00.000-08:00

Spiny Lobster

Description: The California Spiny Lobster is a beautiful rust color and has long antennae. It has numerous forward-directing spines on its back. These lobsters can grow up to 20 pounds and can live to be 100 years old! California Spiny lobsters lack the claws that most other lobsters have.

Defense: Although California Spiny Lobsters lack the large claws, they do have large antennae that they use for defense. They also have sharp spines on their backs and in a dangerous situation, they use their tail to propel themselves backwards.

Where they are Found: California Spiny Lobsters can be found from the tip of the Baja California Peninsula to Monterey, California. They can often be found hiding in rocks and caves.

Feeding: These lobsters are nocturnal and can be found at night eating clams, mussels, sea urchins, snails, kelp, worms, scallops and small fish.

WOW!!! This species of lobster lacks the large claws that Maine Lobsters have. Instead they have large sharp spines covering their bodies for protection.

November Newsletter

2008-11-12T11:16:00.000-08:00

An Ocean of Thanks
Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks for everything in our lives, such as watching a radiant sunset or hearing the crashing of the waves. The ocean provides us with many simple pleasures, but it also provides us with the sustenance for life on this planet. Take a deep breath. The ocean provides over 70% of the oxygen that you, me, the blue whale in the ocean, the leaf-cutter ant in the rain forest and everything else in between breathes. The ocean also soaks up more than 2 billion tons of the globe's gaseous carbon pollutants, most of which humans put into the atmosphere. It provides food as well as jobs to millions of people every day. The ocean also offers many of the ingredients for today's and tomorrow's medicines. The ocean not only helps us breathe, eat, and stay healthy, it also supports the economy. One recent analysis has shown that if we had to pay for all of the goods and services that the ocean provides, such as regulating atmospheric gases, cycling nutrients, producing food, raw materials, and recreation, the cost would be about US $21,000 billion per year! (http://www.nalis.gov.tt/Agri/Agri_ocean.htm) The ocean is something all creatures should be thankful for everyday. However, human actions are abusing and overusing this fragile ecosystem. We need to realize how important the ocean is and learn how to protect it.
10 Things YOU Can Do to Help the Ocean
1. LEARN all you can. Read, surf the web and experience the ocean directly.
2. Be a SMART SHOPPER. Ask grocery stores and restaurants about the source of their seafood.
3. CONSERVE water. Be careful when washing your car or watering your lawn.
4. REDUCE household pollutants. Cut down and properly dispose of herbicides, pesticides and cleaning products.
5. REDUCE waste. Dispose of trash properly. Where possible, recycle, re-use, and compost.
6. REDUCE automobile pollution. Use fuel efficient vehicles or carpool. Recycle motor oil and repair oil and air conditioning leaks.
7. PROTECT ocean wildlife. Don't dispose of fishing lines, nets, or plastic items in or near the water.
8. BE CONSIDERATE of sea life habitats. Don't bother sea birds, mammals, and turtles or their nesting grounds. Support marine protected areas.
9. GET INVOLVED. Take part in a beach cleanup or other ocean-related activities.
PASS ON YOUR KNOWLEDGE! List from http://dusk2.geo.orst.edu/oceans/yoto.html)

October Newsletter

2008-10-02T15:45:00.000-07:00

Holiday Craft Weekend at the Roundhouse Saturday and Sunday, October 25Come on down the Roundhouse Aquarium to celebrate ghost shrimp and tree fish! On October 25^th and 26^th from 10am-sunset the Roundhouse will be celebrating Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Autumn with crafts and activities for children of all ages. Visit us and decorate cookies, listen to stories of ghosts and goblins from the sea and create crafts galore! Make your own trick-or-treat bag, decorate an autumn door hanger, piece together a creepy spider, and assemble a sea animal mask! This free event is hosted by Chevron. Be sure to bring your family and friends to the end of the pier and be ready to have some fun at the Roundhouse.

Water Harvest Festival

Join the Roundhouse and celebrate the West Basin Municipal Water District’s 10^th annual Water Harvest Festival! This free event focuses on recycled water and ways to conserve this precious resource. The Water Harvest Festival will be held on Saturday, October 18^th from 10am-2pm at the Edward C. Little Water Recycling Facility at 1935 Hughes Way in El Segundo. Bring the whole family and participate in fun crafts and games, check out educational exhibits, eat some delicious food, grab some free giveaways and try to win exciting prizes. Be sure to wear closed toed shoes if you would like to take a tour of the recycling facility. Stop by the Roundhouse booth for information on our upcoming programs. Hope to see you there so we can learn how to conserve water together!