Seal Who Lived at Jenkinson's Aquarium Since 1992 Dies

Jenkinson's Aquarium bid farewell to a friend this week, as a 23-year-old seal who has lived at the company's aquarium on the Point Pleasant Beach boardwalk died suddenly.

Coral, a female harbor seal, had been undergoing medical treatment after a rapid onset of symptoms was noted by her keepers, a statement from the aquarium said.

Initial necropsy results were inconclusive, so further testing is being done but the results may take a couple of weeks to come back.

"As is often the case, a specific cause of death may never be determined," the statement said.

According to aquarium officials, Coral and her sister, Seaquin, came to the aquarium in February of 1992 to keep Luseal – another resident seal – company.

"Coral was our daydreamer," the statement said. "She reminded us not to take life so seriously. Coral didn't just make us laugh and smile at her behaviors, she was also an educator. She helped us raise awareness about not only her wild cousins, but also about the importance of clean oceans."

According to MarineBio.org, female harbor seals live an average of 25 to 30 years.

The aquarium staff said Coral will be "deeply missed."