The Aquarium of the Pacific’s lecture series “First Wednesday” will present a noted expert on sharks and why summer is peak season for shark activity on Wednesday, August 5 at its Honda Vision Center from 7-9 p.m.
In an announcement this week, the acclaimed institution said Southern California’s coastal waters serve as a major nursery habitat for juvenile white sharks. The summer months mark a peak season for shark activity due to seasonally warmer waters.
Moreover, they said the marine heat wave has brought even warmer than usual ocean temperatures in 2026. Such conditions increase white shark presence but also other tropical shark species such as hammerheads.
Therefore, the Aquarium has invited a noted shark expert to speak on exactly what goes on in the sharky shade of summer.
“Join us for a conversation with Dr. Chris Lowe to learn about the current situation of sharks in our waters. Discover how marine biologists study sharks’ behaviors and migration patterns. Learn how advanced technologies, such as satellite tracking and smart tags, are allowing for real time warning systems. Examine the impacts of human activities on sharks in the ocean and steps that we can take to safeguard beachgoers and surfers sharing the water,” the Aquarium said in the announcement.
Dr. Chris Lowe is a world-renowned marine biologist and served as the director of the Shark Lab at California State University, Long Beach for 27 years. Recognized as one of the world’s foremost experts on shark behavior, his pioneering research focuses on the movement, behavior and physiology of sharks, rays and gamefish. He utilizes a wide array of technology including acoustic telemetry, satellite tracking, and smart tags to log data.
Dr. Lowe is a prominent voice in science communication, bridging the gap between marine predators and public safety. He’s appeared in many articles, TV and radio broadcasts, including Discovery Channel’s Shark Week, The PBS/BBC special Big Blue Live, NBC’s TODAY show, and National Geographic.
He collaborates directly with lifeguards and beach communities to share data regarding shark-human interactions. Dr. Lowe grew up in Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts and comes from a long line of New England commercial fisherman and whalers. He earned a BA in marine biology at Barrington College in Rhode Island, an MS in Biology at California State University, Long Beach, studying under the Shark Lab founder Donald Nelson, and his Doctorate in Zoology, studying hammerhead sharks at University of Hawaii.
Following the presentation, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy live music, crafts and conversations in our art gallery. ONX Winery will also be hosting a complimentary wine tasting at this event. The program will also be live-streamed, recorded and photographed.
Tickets cost $8 for advanced online reservations or $10 for tickets the day of the event. It will be held at the Honda Vision Center and parking is $6 direct across from the facility. The Aquarium notes tickets are available pending availability so “please check first.”
Visit aquariumofpacific.org for additional information.