Washington, DC (July 24, 2008) – The “Ambassador for the World’s Oceans” Dr. Sylvia Earle and shark advisor of Discovery Channel’s Shark Week Andy Dehart came together on July 24th for a lively discussion with Washington’s science and biology community on the world’s marine species, their aquatic environment and the global threats that they face. The discussion was held at the National Aquarium in Washington, the nation’s oldest aquarium, which just underwent a five-year renovation effort to improve habitat conditions, animal care, the facility’s appearance and educational programming. Serving visitors since 1931, the newly refurbished National Aquarium in Washington DC is home to “America’s Aquatic Treasures,” with over 200 species including shark, eel, gators, the dreaded invasive snakehead fish and a “Head Start” baby loggerhead turtle.

Dr. Sylvia Earle is the former Chief Scientist of the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration where she was responsible for monitoring the health of the nation’s waters. In this capacity she also reported on the environmental damage wrought by Iraq’s burning of the Kuwaiti oil fields. Today she is explorer-in-residence at the National Geographic Society.

Shark Biologist Andy Dehart serves as General Manager for the National Aquarium in Washington, DC and serves as Shark Advisor for Discovery Channel.  Dehart is a renowned diver and expert on shark biology and frequently educates the media and public on the myths surrounding sharks and other aquatic species. He recently appeared on NBC Nightly News for a feature segment on the invasive lionfish, and MSNBC with perspective on shark attacks.

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