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New Leafy Sea Dragons Debut at EPCOT’s The Seas
To commemorate the 40th anniversary of The Seas pavilion (formerly The Living Seas), a group of Leafy Sea Dragons has officially moved into the Nursery on the pavilion’s second floor.
The news first made waves after Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President of Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment, shared a mesmerizing video of the newcomers gliding through their exhibit. For guests who enjoy the slower side of EPCOT, these “tiny floating dragons” are a must-see addition to the SeaBase aquarium.
Related-Baby Manatee Soleil Arrives in The Seas Pavilion at EPCOT
Masters of Camouflage
Native to the southern and western coasts of Australia, Leafy Sea Dragons (Phycodurus eques) are close relatives of seahorses and pipefish. They are world-renowned for their incredible survival strategy:
- Intricate Mimicry: Their bodies are covered in leaf-like appendages that allow them to blend perfectly with swaying kelp and seagrass.
- Drifting Motion: They move with a slow, rhythmic grace, appearing more like floating vegetation than a living creature.
- A “Wyrm” Appearance: With long, slender bodies, they resemble the mythical wyrm dragons of folklore, making them one of the most unique species in the pavilion.
Related-New Sea Dragons have Arrived at The Seas with Nemo & Friends
A Behind-the-Scenes Look
The arrival of these seven-month-old dragons adds a fresh layer of depth to the Nursery area. This section of the pavilion is designed to give guests a window into the “real work” of Disney’s marine scientists.
Expert Tip: If you visit soon, you may still see some curtains around the exhibit. This is a standard practice to help the young sea dragons acclimate to the crowds and the “paparazzi” (aka our cell phone cameras!) without getting stressed.
Why You Should Visit
The Seas with Nemo & Friends remains one of the best “hidden gems” for escaping the Florida heat and the heavy crowds.
| Feature | Why It’s Worth the Stop |
| Atmosphere | Quiet, dimly lit, and perfectly air-conditioned. |
| Education | Learn about Disney’s conservation efforts and manatee rehabilitation. |
| The New Residents | The sea dragons offer a rare, peaceful photography opportunity. |
| Hidden Details | Look for the nearby sea urchins currently wearing berets for the Festival of the Arts! |
If you’re planning an EPCOT day soon, don’t just stop at the clamobiles. Head upstairs to the second floor of SeaBase and take a moment to watch these delicate creatures drift by. It’s a beautiful reminder that sometimes the most impressive things in the park are the ones that require us to slow down and look a little closer.
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