Dr Julia Sigwart, Portaferry resident and Director of Queen’s University Marine Laboratory points out “Exploris is the best possible place to showcase the exceptionally diverse marine life of Strangford Lough, which has just become Northern Ireland’s first Marine Conservation Zone and is one of the most important marine nature sites in Europe. Unlike most aquaria, Exploris draws water directly from the Lough, meaning the displays are as close as possible to the natural environment. The infrastructure is already in place, and with some investment the aquarium and its seal sanctuary are the perfect place for everyone to engage with the Lough and learn why it is so important.”