MOBILE, Ala. — The Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center announced the five finalist names for the “Name a Dino” contest.

The contest invited the public to submit potential names for Mobile’s new baby Tyrannosaurus Rex, who is on display at the science center.

More than 200 names were entered for the initial phase of the competition.

The public may vote on the five finalist names at www.exploreum.com through Jan. 12. The winning name will be announced Jan. 15.

The five finalist names are: 

•Chomper

•Gumbo

•Mardi

•Mobi

•Rexxy

Participants submitted names based on the following description of the dinosaur:

“A fast-runner and deadly predator, the Tyrannosaurus Rex is the most well-known dinosaur and one of the largest land carnivores of all time. Tyrannosaurus means ‘tyrant lizard’ and Rex means ‘king’ in Latin.”

The individual whose name receives the most votes will be awarded a Standard Family Membership and four free tickets to experience Dinosaurs Downtown, which opens Jan. 16

The winner will also have his or her name posted with the baby T-Rex during the exhibit.

The science center announced the signing of the larger-than-life exhibit last July.

Dinosaurs Downtown will feature 10 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, a dinosaur photo opportunity and a fossil dig where young children can excavate for their very own “fossils.”

The animatronic dinosaurs will move, roar and, in some cases, even spit for Exploreum visitors.

Online tickets for Dinosaurs Downtown are now available for purchase at www.exploreum.com.

Schools and tour groups are encouraged to book in advance by calling (251) 208-6880.

For more information, visit online at www.exploreum.com.