Birch Aquarium Kelp Forest Live Cam

Partners

Birch Aquarium at Scripps

We’re proud to partner with Birch Aquarium at Scripps, a world-class ocean discovery center located in La Jolla, California. As the public outreach arm of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego, Birch Aquarium invites visitors on immersive journeys through vibrant marine ecosystems from California’s coastal waters to tropical reefs while highlighting critical research, conservation, and climate actions. Through its dynamic exhibits, behind-the-scenes tours, educational programs, and live animal interactions, Birch Aquarium inspires ocean stewardship and public understanding of marine science.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I see on the Birch Aquarium Live Kelp Cam?

Watch a thriving kelp forest habitat filled with native Pacific marine life, including leopard sharks, garibaldi, kelp bass, and California sheephead.

Where is the Birch Aquarium Kelp Cam located?

It streams from the giant kelp forest exhibit inside Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, California.

What is a giant kelp forest?

It’s a towering underwater ecosystem of fast-growing brown algae that provides food and shelter for hundreds of coastal species.

When is the best time to watch the kelp cam?

Daytime hours often reveal the most activity, with sunlight streaming through the water and fish exploring the kelp canopy.

Why do the kelp fronds sway so much?

The gentle swaying motion comes from ocean-like currents that mimic natural wave movement, keeping the kelp healthy and lifelike.

What species of fish are most commonly seen on the stream?

Look for bright orange garibaldi, sleek leopard sharks, kelp bass, and colorful señorita wrasses gliding among the kelp.

Do the animals stay in the exhibit year-round?

Yes. The kelp forest habitat is maintained year-round, with species that naturally thrive in the cool coastal waters of California.

How tall can the giant kelp grow?

In the wild, giant kelp can reach heights of up to 100 feet, forming dense forests that stretch from the seafloor to the surface.

What do leopard sharks eat in the kelp forest?

They typically feed on small fish, crustaceans, and mollusks found along the sandy seafloor beneath the kelp.

Why is the garibaldi such a bright orange color?

The vibrant hue helps this fish defend its territory and attract mates—it’s also California’s official state marine fish.

Is the kelp in the exhibit real?

Yes, the exhibit features living kelp, carefully maintained to mirror natural ocean conditions.

How is the kelp kept healthy indoors?

Special lighting, temperature control, and water circulation recreate ocean conditions that allow the kelp to photosynthesize and grow.

What role does kelp play in the ocean ecosystem?

Kelp provides shelter, food, and nursery space for marine species while producing oxygen and absorbing carbon dioxide.

Can you see seasonal changes on the kelp cam?

Yes. Seasonal lighting and temperature shifts affect kelp growth and can influence which species are most active.

Why is kelp considered important for the environment?

It helps fight climate change by absorbing CO₂, and its forests act as underwater nurseries that support marine biodiversity.

Do divers maintain the kelp exhibit?

Yes. Aquarium staff divers regularly trim kelp, clean surfaces, and check on animal health to keep the ecosystem balanced.

How long can a strand of kelp live?

Individual kelp plants can live for several years under stable conditions, continually regrowing from their holdfasts.

Can I visit the Birch Aquarium in person?

Yes! The Birch Aquarium welcomes visitors to explore exhibits on marine science, conservation, and local ocean life.

What makes the kelp forest exhibit unique?

It’s one of the few living indoor kelp forests in the world, offering a close look at an ecosystem usually seen by divers.

Are there any conservation programs tied to this exhibit?

Yes. Birch Aquarium and Scripps Oceanography run marine conservation and education programs promoting ocean stewardship.

How can I help protect kelp forests in the wild?

Support ocean-friendly habits—reduce plastic use, avoid chemical runoff, and back coastal conservation initiatives.

What’s the temperature like in the kelp forest habitat?

It’s kept cool, around 60°F (16°C), matching the temperate Pacific waters that kelp forests naturally inhabit.

Why are there bubbles in the water?

They come from aeration and filtration systems that help circulate oxygen and maintain healthy water conditions.

Do nocturnal animals appear on the camera?

Some species rest in shaded areas during the day but become more active after dark when lights dim.

Is the stream suitable for classrooms or educational use?

Absolutely—teachers often use the live feed to introduce marine biology, ocean ecology, and conservation topics.