San Antonio Zoo to open coral reef lab next summer

State of play: The 937-square-foot space will be located next to the zoo's historic Friedrich Aquarium. It's funded and inspired by the family of the late R.P. Brewer III, a San Antonio College geology professor.

• "Robert's background in coral reef science and our shared love for (the) San Antonio Zoo inspired this project," the Brewer family said in a statement.

Zoom in: The lab will showcase both native Texas deep-water corals and international species and will feature a touch tank and educational programs like talks led by zoo staff.

What they're saying: "Coral reefs are among the most biodiverse and threatened ecosystems worldwide and are vital to the planet's ecosystem. Rising ocean temperatures, pollution, and disease have devastated reefs globally," Tim Morrow, zoo president and CEO, said in a statement.