Biodiversity Discovery Center
The small Biodiversity Discovery Center in Mortensen Hall will accommodate small groups. Hours of operation, admission fees, and directions are available at the home page (click here).
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Proposed Exhibits
We have identified an absolutely amazing 44,000 square-foot facility perfectly suited for our needs. We urgently need some very substantial gifts, as we have a limited amount of time to secure the lease at below-market rates. We need to raise at least $5 million to make this possible. Please click here to see the important details (including contact info) regarding this facility and what we hope to accomplish with it. Some of the animals featured in the proposed exhibits are listed below
Caribbean Islands Biodiversity Hotspot (including Florida)
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Live animals on exhibit: |
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Assorted fishes |
West Indian Boas |
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Estimated cost: $250,000 |
South & MesoAmerica Biodiversity Hotspots
Live animals on exhibit: |
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Piranha & other |
Anaconda |
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Estimated cost: $150,000 |
Pacific Island Biodiversity Hotspots
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Live animals on exhibit: |
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Coral reef tank |
Weedy Dragon |
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Shell and Invertebrate collectionEstimated cost: $500,000 |
African Biodiversity Hotspot
Live animals on exhibit: |
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Radiated Tortoise |
Gaboon Viper |
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Big game taxidermy animalsEstimated cost: $50,000 |
Australian & Asian Biodiversity Hotspots
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Live animals on exhibit: |
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Death Adder |
Inland Taipan |
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Assorted taxidermy animalsEstimated cost: $50,000 |
Invertebrate Biodiversity
Live animals on exhibit: |
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Spiders |
Mantis |
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Venoms and medicine exhibitEstimated cost: $15,000 |
California Biodiversity Hotspot
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Live animals on exhibit: |
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Colorado River |
Rosy Boa |
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Assorted taxidermy animalsEstimated cost: $150,000 |
Other Exhibits & Features
Ancient Biodiversity Exhibit – In their studies of ancient environments, Loma Linda University paleontologists have unearthed many exciting discoveries, including previously undescribed animal species. This exhibit will feature numerous fossil plants and animals. Kids will love rolling up their sleeves for a fossil dig.
Estimated cost: $50,000
Threats to Biodiversity Exhibit – Biodiversity is greatly threatened by human population growth, habitat loss, pollution, invasive species, climate change, and the illicit trade in wildlife. This exhibit will highlight some of these problems.
Estimated cost: $15,000
Conservation Research – Each exhibit will include special signage and/or videotaped presentations of the biodiversity and conservation studies conducted by Loma Linda University faculty, students, and collaborators.
Estimated cost: $15,000
Gift Shop – Guests can purchase unique art items, books, videos, clothing, toys, curios, and autographed memorabilia. Drinks and snacks will also be available. Proceeds will contribute to operation of the facility.
Dining - We hope to create a memorable dining experience.
Docents – Volunteers will be trained to share fascinating information and answer questions
Exhibit
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Center Faculty
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