This fall, Estrella Mountain Community College added a 600-gallon marine aquarium to the Science Mall in Montezuma Hall. The aquarium simulates a natural reef habitat so students can observe a dynamic ecosystem, rather than learning only from textbooks and dissection trays. The tank will be used in water chemistry analysis, and students taking biology and ecology courses will also study the natural habitat within the aquarium. All of the working components of the tank are open for viewing to further enhance the educational value of this project. Tank and aquarium enthusiasts in the community are invited to come see how the system is constructed, and to learn about the maintenance and science of the tank. Posters and slide shows will also be available for spectators to peruse and learn more about the inhabitants of the tank.
For additional information, please contact Dr. Levi Torrison, chemistry faculty, at 623-935-8703 or Allen Reyes, lab coordinator, at 623-935-8420.