Marina is the aquarium’s third Bengal tiger to die in the last two years. Nero and Reef passed in 2024.
HOUSTON — The Downtown Aquarium in Houston is mourning the loss of its last remaining white Bengal tiger.
“With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Marina, our 21-year-old Bengal tiger and the oldest tiger of any subspecies in an AZA-accredited facility,” the aquarium posted on Instagram Monday.
Editor’s note: The above video originally aired in December 2024 following the death of Reef.
They said Marina was known for her “fierce spirit, beauty, and love of shredding phone books.”
Marina, the matriarch of the aquarium’s tiger family, became the fourth Bengal tiger to die in the last two years. Both Reef and Nero passed in 2024 at the ages of 20, and 17-year-old Coral died of cancer in 2021.
According to its website, the aquarium is still home to 4-year-old Apollo, an orange Bengal tiger described as rambunctious and playful; Zara, a nearly 2-year-old Sumatran tiger whose name means “princess”; and her twin sister, Kirana, described as shy and mysterious.
Remembering Downtown Aquarium’s other white Bengal tigers
According to conservation groups, the Bengal tiger’s average lifespan in the wild ranges from 10 to 18 years, while tigers in captivity typically live longer.
Reef (2004 – 2024)
In December, the aquarium euthanized Reef after his quality of life declined due to his advanced age.
“Reef’s well-being was our top priority, but we had to make a tough decision after Reef’s quality of life began to decline due to his advanced age,” Director of Animal Operations Jim Prappas said.
His body was donated to science.
Nero (2003 – 2024)
Gentle and wise, Nero was the oldest male in the aquarium’s tiger family.
“He greeted familiar faces with a friendly chuff and enjoyed bubble baths, boomer balls, and lounging in his hammock. His mellow nature and warm spirit made him a favorite among guests and staff alike,” the aquarium said.
They said Nero never lost his youthful spark, even in old age.
Coral (2004 – 2021)
“Spirited and stunning, Coral was known for her playful pounces and deep bond with her companion, Reef,” the aquarium posted after Coral died in 2021.
Controversial tiger exhibit once sparked lawsuit
The Aquarium’s original indoor tiger habitat had long been the source of controversy, including a lawsuit by the Animal Legal Defense Fund. The lawsuit was put on hold after the group learned the Aquarium was adding a large outdoor area.
The $4 million, 3,500-square-foot habitat opened in 2019, allowing the beautiful tigers to roam from an outdoor exhibit to an indoor area that includes plenty of windows and skylights. It also has a waterfall, a large pool, lush landscaping and rocks to climb.
In Marina’s honor, the aquarium is donating $2,100 to the Tiger Conservation Campaign, $100 for every year of her life.