Tucked away in one of Biddeford’s former mill buildings on Pearl Street, there is a growing and thriving display of underwater life – from tropical coral reefs to freshwater rivers and lakes.

The Northeast Aquarium Science Center attracted hundreds of visitors Saturday during its grand-opening event that showcased several species of sea life and an opportunity to learn more about marine ecosystems.

Emma Balboni is the president of the science center, and she says the aquarium’s mission is to help educate people about the environmental importance of marine life and also raise awareness about the challenges being faced by working waterfronts all over the globe.

“We’re really excited to offer the public access to a world that is often overlooked,” Balboni said. “We want the next generation to know and appreciate where seafood comes from.”

Balboni grew up in Cape Cod and spent summers in Maine. Her great grandfather is from the coastal, fishing town of Cutler, Maine. “These are issues that are near and dear to my heart,” she explains. “It’s basically in my blood.”

Balboni says it is critically important to protect both the fishing industry and the ecosystems that have fueled Maine’s economy for centuries.

According to the organization’s website, the aquarium is “currently home to a variety of different species of aquatic fauna, invertebrates, and fish, including an alien-like sea apple, a genetically distinct clownfish and even a mimic octopus.”

The overall goal, Balboni said is “to take these extraordinary exhibits with us through our growth and allow for many other exhibits to join them along the way.”

Once finished, the aquarium will feature exhibits from the Gulf of Maine, Maine’s lakes and rivers, the Caribbean, Indo-Pacific, major rivers, and major lakes across the world.

But beyond the dazzling aquatic displays, there is also emerging educational opportunities, including microscopes that visitors can use to study microscopic seal life.

“We’re really excited to offer the public
access to a world that is often overlooked”

— Emma Balboni

Balboni says the center hopes to bring exhibits and information about Maine’s lobstering, aquaculture and ecotourism industries to Biddeford.

Rick Oellers of Saco heads up the education programs at the science center. A master aquarist, Oellers was a former adjunct professor at the University of New England.

“I have been keeping tropical fish for 62 years,” Oellers said. “I have been blessed because now I am living my dream. My hobby is now my business.”

Oellers says that science-based hobbies, such as astronomy and other subjects are quickly disappearing as a new generation connects primarily to their smart phones for both recreation and information.

“We want to get kids interested in marine life, starting at an early age including elementary schools and even daycares,” he said. “We want to give kids and others a chance to explore what is happening just below the surface.”

The non-profit aquarium is located at 22 Pearl Street and does not have a set admission price, asking visitors to donate whatever they can afford.

For more information about the North East Aquarium Science Center, you can visit their website: https://www.northeastaquariumsciencecenter.org/

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