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Sharks have nearly taken over the Newport Aquarium this summer.

There are more than 120 of them on display for Shark Fest, more than twice the normal number, according to spokesperson Jill Isaacs, making Newport Aquarium the largest exhibitor of sharks in the Western hemisphere.

"Sharks have been incorporated into almost every gallery," she said. "One of the star attractions is a zebra bullhead shark, something that's never been before in North America."

Two other species making a North American debut are the Arabian carpet shark and the white cheek shark.

"We've also revamped the jelly fish gallery into 'Shark Alley' with interactive activities for kids," Isaacs said.

Some of the new interactive learning stations in Shark Alley include:

• Shark Vet: A high-tech interactive activity that lets kids perform their first shark exam.

• Shark Vision: A fun interactive display that gives a shark's eye view of the underwater world.

• Shark X-Ray: A display that uses unique imagery to educate kids about basic shark anatomy.

• Shark Jaw Pressure: A hands-on activity that lets kids compare their strength with the jaw pressure of a shark.

Every guest will receive a new "Shark Tracker" guide when they enter the aquarium. The guide highlights the sharks throughout the aquarium and showcases the new exhibits.

Newport Aquarium features a new movie in the Duke Energy Theater that highlights its unique Shark Ray Breeding Program, starring Sweet Pea and her new boyfriend, Scooter.

"And there's a virtual shark cage experience," Isaacs said, "that includes a giant screen with sound effects, simulating the experience of going down with six white sharks." Families can also save some money this summer by visiting the aquarium in the afternoons. From 4:30 to 7 p.m. Sunday through Friday, up to two children 12 and younger get in free with each adult paying full price, through Aug. 31.

HOW TO GO

WHAT: Shark Fest.

WHERE: Newport Aquarium, Newport, Ky.

WHEN: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday.

COST: $17.95 adults; $15.95 seniors; $10.95 children ages 3 through 12); children 2 and under are admitted free.

MORE INFO: (859) 261-7444; newportaquarium.com.