Sharks Thrive in Las Vegas Aquarium

Shark Reef Aquarium in the desert city houses hundreds of pounds of fish for its shark population.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 5:06am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Becky O'Brien, the lead aquarist at the Shark Reef Aquarium in Las Vegas, has found a way to work with ocean life in the middle of the desert. The aquarium is home to a thriving shark population that feasts on hundreds of pounds of fish each week.

Why it matters

The Shark Reef Aquarium is an unexpected oasis for marine life in the heart of the Las Vegas desert, showcasing the ability to create sustainable habitats for sharks and other ocean creatures far from their natural coastal environments.

The details

The Shark Reef Aquarium, located within the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, houses a variety of shark species that are fed hundreds of pounds of fish each week to support their dietary needs. Becky O'Brien, the lead aquarist, oversees the care and feeding of the sharks, ensuring they thrive in their desert habitat.

  • The Shark Reef Aquarium has been operating in Las Vegas since the early 2000s.

The players

Becky O'Brien

The lead aquarist at the Shark Reef Aquarium in Las Vegas, responsible for the care and feeding of the sharks.

Shark Reef Aquarium

An aquarium located within the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, home to a thriving shark population.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The Shark Reef Aquarium in Las Vegas demonstrates the ability to create sustainable habitats for marine life, even in the heart of a desert city, showcasing the ingenuity and dedication of the aquarium's staff in providing a thriving home for sharks and other ocean creatures.