Get to know some of the more than 1,000 species on exhibit—or behind the scenes—at the California Academy of Sciences' Steinhart Aquarium.
Spotted garden eels spend the majority of their lives partially embedded in the sea floor.
Gouldian finches are polymorphic, with three possible head color variations—black, yellow, or red.
Pacific spiny lumpsuckers have tiny fins and no swim bladder, yet are able to travel as deep as 480 feet.
African penguins establish strong pair bonds and use complex forms of communication in their social groups.
Beautiful and social, these birds are even known to feed chicks belonging to other members of their flock.
You’ll need sharp eyes to spot the leafy seadragon in the wild—it's virtually indistinguishable from kelp.
These tiny orange frogs secrete highly toxic chemicals for defense—toxins they amass by eating poisonous ants.
This impressive shrimp packs a 50-mph punch that can inflict up to 160 pounds of instantaneous force.
Grainy cochran frogs, known as "glass frogs," have translucent bellies that reveal bones and organs.
Bluespotted ribbontail rays boast beautiful, iridescent spots and a long tail armed with venomous spines.
Academy scientists added 213 new species to the tree of life this year. Meet some of the standouts, from dazzling nudibranchs to a "slingshot predator" preserved in amber.
Proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of a scheduled museum visit is now required for all Academy guests ages 12+, along with photo ID for guests ages 18+. Masks are required indoors for all guests ages 2+. Thank you for your understanding and support—and for helping to keep our community safe.
