"SeaWorld Entertainment Inc announced plans on Monday to phase out the signature "Shamu" killer whale show at its San Diego park next year, after long-running criticism of its treatment of the captive marine mammals.

The move, which follows a vote by the California Coastal Commission last month barring the park from continuing to breed killer whales, or orcas, in captivity, was announced during a webcast company presentation to investors and the media.

In place of its centerpiece orca performances, the park plans to open a new killer whale exhibition in 2017 staged in a "more natural setting" with a more conservation-oriented theme, SeaWorld Chief Executive Officer Joel Manby said during the presentation."

Marty Graham reports for Reuters November 9, 2015. [2]