By William Coffman, Opinions & Editorials Editor
The Newport Aquarium recently unveiled its new exhibit, “Jellies: Go With The Flow.” The exhibit features different species of jellyfish from across the world, adding an informational glimpse into the world of jellyfish.

The Newport Aquarium took an interest in these creatures for several reasons. Lacking a brain, heart, and lungs, jellyfish simply let the ocean current take them wherever, demonstrating why the new exhibit name is a perfect fit for them. 

Jellyfish also require specific kinds of currents to assist in their movement. The aquarium has created tanks designed to create just that, with the different tanks holding varying amounts of water and creating diverse currents to keep the environment for the jellyfish in good condition. 

Visitors can see facts about each of the species present, such as origin, what they eat, and the pain of their stings. Visitors can also glimpse into a lab the aquarium operates, where new jellyfish will be born, assisting in maintaining the population of the species right here in Southwest Ohio.

The exhibit features six different species of jellyfish: the South American sea nettle, the Upside-down jellyfish, the Blue Blubber jellyfish, the Dwarf lion’s mane, the White-spotted jellyfish, and the Moon jellyfish. 

The unveiling of the exhibit showcased the design of the new exhibit, but also spotlighted the role the aquarium plays in the Newport community. Guests at the ribbon-cutting included local and state political figures as well as aquarium staff. 

Newport Mayor Tom Guidugli was present at the event and spoke of the recognition the rest of the state awards the aquarium. Guidugli remarked that, when attending conferences with other Kentucky mayors, they often make comments about the aquarium, proving the aquarium’s status as an impressive facility. 

The aquarium is a popular attraction for families in the Cincinnati metropolitan area, having been a key tourist attraction in the region since it opened in 1999. The unveiling event had a heavy emphasis not just on the new exhibit, but on families and what the aquarium means to them. Nearly all the speakers involved in the unveiling mentioned how they used to bring their kids to the aquarium when they were younger.

The jellyfish join many other animals and exhibits at the aquarium, including penguins, rays, and sharks. The jellyfish exhibit neighbors the famous shark bridge, one of the more well-known exhibits. With the jellyfish exhibit, the aquarium seeks to maintain their status as a key Northern Kentucky institution.