Planning for the diorama began in 1977, construction began in 1981, and the diorama opened to the public in 1983. I nitial stage of construction, showing background painting, carpentry that supports the reef topography, and placement of large coral models. T housands of wax models of reef organisms were made by Terry Chase Studios. The models are detailed reconstructions based on fossil specimens, with soft parts interpreted from living relatives.
Colors used for the models are speculative.
B ackground painting is now complete, carpentry has been covered, and most of the wax models are in place. L arge cephalopod models are in place and exhibit specialists install the final wax models.