Spectrum of Life, Hall of Biodiversity
© AMNH, Craig Chesek
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Hall of Biodiversity
Explore the Spectrum of Life display, a cladogram that highlights the diversity of life on Earth.
Gottesman Hall of Planet Earth
- Learn about physical oceanography.
- Investigate the role of oceans in shaping Earth's climate.
- See a real "black smoker" recovered from a hydrothermal vent on the ocean floor.
Fourth Floor Fossil Halls
Explore the story of vertebrate evolution in these five halls. The Hall of Vertebrate Origins tells the story of the evolution of vertebrates in the oceans and the movement of some onto land.
Hall of Northwest Coast Indians
© K. Regam
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Northwest Coast Indians
Investigate the Hall's featured cultures, which occupy the northwestern shore of North America from southern Alaska to Washington State. The artifacts, folklore, and artwork displayed document and celebrate the customs and artistry of the Kwakiutl, Haida, Tlingit, Bella Coola, and other peoples.
- View the full-size Haida oceangoing canoe in front of the Northwest Coast Indians Hall.
- Note ocean-inspired craftsmanship that can be seen in the textiles, basketry, and masks of the Northwest Coast communities.
Hall of Pacific Peoples
Explore the South Pacific islands of Polynesia, Micronesia, and Melanesia, which reflect remarkable geographic and cultural diversity. On display:
- Stick charts used for navigation at sea
- Fishing gear
- Information on sailing and trade
Hall of South American Peoples
Learn about pre-Columbian cultures of South America as well as its contemporary indigenous peoples. Displays about the Andes include information on the role of the sea in myth and religion, and show examples of how ocean resources are used.
The Hall of Asian Peoples
Examine the coastlines of western Eurasia, and learn about prehistoric storytelling through Siberian engravings on bone that include images of ocean life. On display:
- The traditional trade routes of Asia via seafaring vessels
- Malay seafarers
