Learn more about coral at the Shedd

Ross Cunning and other Shedd scientists go to the Bahamas to study coral. While there, they practice the same kind of reef protection people on tropical vacations should: Use only coral-safe sunscreen, be careful not to step on reefs or break off coral, and make sure you do not anchor a boat directly on a reef.

But for average folks, the Chicago aquarium offers a chance to experience the fascinating, beautiful, threatened animals far from any ocean. The main central tank on the aquarium’s top floor is called the Caribbean Reef. Its 90,000-gallon tank offers a highly concentrated slice of underwater life in the vicinity of coral reefs in the region where Cunning does his research.

But down one floor, the spectacularly vivid Wild Reef exhibit, replicating Filipino reef life, goes much more specifically into what coral are, how they live and what endangers them. Its signs offer full details and helpful graphics about how coral live, reproduce and build reefs.

Opened in 2003, it talks more about pollution and other direct human threats to coral than the primary current danger of climate change.

But a newer section toward the end of Wild Reef does address the threat of global warming as it details Shedd’s work, including with the SECORE International conservation group, to grow coral fragments, help coral spawn and restore reefs. One of Cunning’s duties since his return from his October research trip is to lead an update of that area with a look into the research he is conducting.

Stories on the aquarium web site offer further details about coral and how Shedd works to preserve it. And guest engagement staff are on hand to augment what exhibits offer by talking directly with visitors about their interests and concerns. Some are National Network for Ocean and Climate Change Interpretation-certified, says a spokeswoman. At the Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive; with $14.95-$39.95 general admission, 312-939-2438 and www.sheddaquarium.org