Marine crustaceans take center stage at Gore's Maruawai Centre

A new exhibition featuring marine crustaceans has opened at the Maruawai Centre in Gore.

The display, titled "Mawhiti Tino Rawe, Clever Crustaceans," runs until December 13. It focuses on five specific marine species. These animals include the koura, the native mantis shrimp, the Phronima amphipod, barnacles, and other crustaceans. The exhibition is presented by the Eastern Southland Gallery in partnership with NIWA and Te Papa.

Dr. Kareen Schnabel and Dr. Rachael Peart from NIWA collaborated with experts from Te Papa to develop the content. Dr. Schnabel described the animals as arthropods with segmented bodies and exoskeletons. She referred to them as the insects of the sea. She noted that these creatures have adapted to diverse environments. These habitats range from shallow beaches to the deepest ocean trenches.

Dr. Schnabel explained that the exhibition covers the unique abilities of these species. It details how the koura changes shape during its life cycle as it wanders the open ocean. It also covers the speed at which the mantis shrimp strikes prey. The display includes information on the eyesight of the Phronima amphipod. This visual capability is being used in techniques to detect cancer in humans. It also describes the physical changes barnacles have undergone to secure food.

Jim Geddes, the District Arts and Heritage curator, stated that the gallery was pleased to host the presentation. He said the exhibition would be engaging for young people in the district. He noted that it is based in the new temporary exhibition space at the recently opened Maruawai Centre. Dan Parke, an exhibition experience developer at Te Papa, said the team wanted to show these important ecosystem members. He said they want visitors to touch, explore, and discover these crustaceans from Aotearoa New Zealand.

The exhibition features real specimens and hands-on interactive displays. It is free for all visitors. The content is designed as a learning experience for people of all ages.