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WAIKIKI AQUARIUM’S DISTINGUISHED LECTURE SERIES TO FEATURE CREATURES OF THE DEEP ON NOVEMBER 19

HONOLULU, HI (November 3, 2015) – In support of its mission to inspire and promote understanding, appreciation and conservation of Pacific marine life, the Waikiki Aquarium continues its popular Distinguished Lecture Series on Thursday, November 19, 2015. Dr. Richard L. Pyle, Department of Natural Sciences, Bishop Museum, will present “Creatures of the Deep,” focusing on his pioneering work in deep-sea dives of 200-500 feet, known as the ‘twilight zone,’ and his discovery of hundreds of new fish species.

“The Waikiki Aquarium has earned a reputation as a leader in marine education and conservation through its programs like the Distinguished Lecture Series,” said Dr. Andrew Rossiter, Director of the Waikīkī Aquarium. “Lecture-goers are in for a real treat, as Dr. Pyle has an incredible understanding of marine life in our oceans’ twilight zone through his research and discovery of new biodiversity on deep sea coral reefs.”

Dr. Pyle’s primary research focus is the exploration and documentation of Mesophotic Coral Ecosystems, with an emphasis on the discovery of new species of fish and other organisms. He was responsible for collecting the rare peppermint angelfish that is currently on display at the Waikiki Aquarium, from water waters near Tahiti, at depths of 400 feet. Not only is Dr. Pyle a world-renowned exploratory diver, but an innovator in the field of technical diving with a specific focus in re-breather technology. He is also an Associate Zoologist, Dive Safety Officer and Database Coordinator for the Bishop Museum.

Presented by Professional Programs at Punahou School and Friends of Waikiki Aquarium, the Distinguished Lecture Series is free. Creatures of the Deep will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Thurston Memorial Chapel, Punahou School. For more information, call (808) 923-9741 or visit www.waikikiaquarium.org/distinguished-lecture-series/.

About the Waikiki Aquarium
Founded in 1904 and administered by the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa since 1919, the Waikiki Aquarium is located on the shoreline of Waikiki Beach next to a living reef and across from Kapiolani Park. The Aquarium – second oldest in the U.S. – showcases more than 500 marine species, and maintains more than 3,500 marine specimens. Public exhibits, education programs and research focus on the unique aquatic life of Hawai‘i and the tropical Pacific. The Aquarium welcomes more than 320,000 visitors annually, and is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. except Honolulu Marathon Sunday and Christmas Day. Admission is $12 for visitors; $8 for local residents and active duty military with ID, $5 for senior citizens and juniors ages four to 12; and free for children three and under and Friends of Waikiki Aquarium (FOWA) members. For more information about the Waikiki Aquarium, including membership, call (808) 923-9741 or visit www.waikikiaquarium.org.

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