The newest occupant of the Loggerhead Marinelife Center moved in today - The World's Largest Sea Turtle Fossil. The sea turtle fossil, known as Archelon ischyros, was installed today in the new 1,200 square foot exhibit hall. The fossil will hang from the center of the hall and serve as the centerpiece of the entire facility.

"The uniqueness of this exhibit will elevate Loggerhead Marinelife Center's exhibitory to new heights as it is the only place in South Florida to see an Archelon replica," said Larry Wood, LMC Curator. "This is an especially important exhibit for the Center because it will serve as a visual reminder that sea turtles have traveled the oceans for tens of millions of years, and it is our responsibility as stewards to the ocean environment to ensure the long-term survival of today's sea turtle species."

The original fossil specimen was collected from the Pierre Shale of South Dakota (45 miles south of Rapid City) in the mid 1970's. The original, which is the largest skeleton of its kind, is on display at the National Natural History Museum in Vienna. This fossil is an exact cast replica purchased from the Black Hills Institute of Geological Research; which was made possible by a generous donation from local resident Laurine Hoenshied.

Facts about the Archelon being installed at the Center:

• The skeleton measures 15 feet long from beak to end of tail.
• The skeleton measures about 16 and ½ feet wide across the carapace from the end of one front flipper to the other outstretched.
• The live weight is estimated at more than 4,500 pounds.
• The Archelon inhabited the seas in the Late Cretaceous period which was about 65 million years ago.
• The Archelon lived an estimated 100 years and probably died while hibernating and partially buried in the mud of the sea floor.

The new Arcehlon exhibit will be ready for visitor viewing on Thursday, April 19; admission is free, however donations are appreciated. The Center hours are 10 am - 5 pm Monday thru Saturday; 12 pm - 4 pm Sunday.The Loggerhead Marinelife Center, a nonprofit organization, is committed to the conservation of marine life through public education, research and rehabilitation with a focus on threatened and endangered sea turtles. In addition to providing educational programs, the Loggerhead Marinelife Center operates a sea turtle rehabilitation program, and features aquariums and other marine exhibits and is located at 14200 US Highway One in Juno Beach. For more information visit www.marinelife.org or call 561-627-8280.