New at the South Carolina Aquarium, discover a ghost of the swamp, a rare albino alligator. You won’t want to miss him – actually – you won’t be able to miss him. Get up-close to this teethy reptile, see him swim underwater and learn about his translucent scales and BIG mouth!
Albinism is a genetic condition where an animal or human lacks melanin, or coloration pigment in the eyes, skin, fur or feathers. Melanin protects the skin from the sun’s ultraviolet radiation, making albino animals very sensitive to sunlight. Albinos typically have red or pink eyes because the blood vessels are no longer hidden by the pigment in the pupil and retina. Albino animals cannot blend in with their surroundings causing difficulty hunting and most commonly, undue attention from predators. Typically, in the wild, albino alligators only have about a 24-hour survival rate.
The Aquarium’s albino alligator receives special low-UV lighting placed at an adjusted distance in its exhibit, as well as vitamin D supplements to help ensure its optimal health.
Did you know that an alligator may go through 2,000 - 3,000 teeth in its lifetime? Or that they can stay underwater for almost an hour!? Learn more scaly facts with this downloadable Species Sheet. Download PDF
