Kraken Curriculum
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Phase 1
1. The Bigger Picture
1.1 50,000 Foot View
50,000 Foot View Topics
The Altruistic Genie: Aquariums in the 21st Century - Mark Smith, New England Aquarium
Full Abstract
Public aquaria aspire to be centers for research, conservation, and education, as well as models for sustainability. In this endeavor public aquaria inspire their visitors through representation of marine and freshwater ecosystems, displaying a wide variety of aquatic organisms. To remain effective and relevant aquaria must: (1) Set an example of sustainability; (2) Continue to optimize industry best practice; (3) Increase pure and applied research activities; (4) Increase conservation activities, esp. in situ; (5) Advance well-researched and practical advocacy; and (6) Augment up-to-date and effective education. Aquaria must actively advance each of these domains, more coherently police industry best practice, better connect their visitors to the wild spaces they represent, and work together to more effectively communicate their value to the environment and society. The New England Aquarium alone presents over 850 different species. When selecting species for exhibition, it is critical to consider the following: justifiable rationales for acquiring a species; available infrastructure and operational capacity; animal husbandry capacity and animal welfare implications; a long-term deaccession plan; and sustainable sources for chosen display animals. The New England Aquarium addresses these demands through a structured planning process, using a set of Strategic Program Criteria and an Exhibition Species Selection Flowchart, implemented through a sustainable collection committee. One mechanism employed at the Aquarium to improve collection sustainability is the strategic breeding and rearing of fish species highly demanded within the industry, yet rarely (or not yet) bred in human care. Examples include the blue chromis (Chromis cyanea), lookdowns (Selene vomer) and the smallmouth grunt (Haemulon chrysargyreum). In addition to careful stewardship of its living collection, the New England Aquarium regularly reviews its animal food sources to ensure sustainable practice is employed.
Act Now or Say Goodbye - Dr. Paul Loiselle
Full Abstract
Fishes as broadly defined are the most specious vertebrate group, by conservative estimate numbering c. 33 000 species. Although free-standing fresh waters comprise only .05% of the earth’s hydrosphere, they are home to 48% of described fish species. Given that the effectively insular nature of freshwater biotopes renders them particularly vulnerable to anthropogenic degradation, it is hardly surprising that freshwater fishes are disproportionately represented in the tally of species known to have disappeared over the past century or presently at serious risk of extinction. The I.U.C.N. recognized 2263 species of freshwater fish as Critically Endangered or Endangered. Its alarming size notwithstanding, this number significantly underestimates the actual number of endangered freshwater fishes, as the conservation status of most species remains to be determined.. Habitat loss due to unsustainable exploitation of groundwater in desert regions, dam construction, mining and deforestation in more mesic regions and the impact of invasive exotic species throughout the world are the principal factors driving this impending extinction tsunami.
While the preservation of viable habitat is the preferred method of assuring the survival of threatened species, political and economic realities preclude the timely implementation of this strategy in most highly biodiverse regions. Captive breeding represents the only viable means of assuring the near-term survival of a significant number of these threatened fishes. The husbandry expertise and oft-proclaimed conservation mission of public aquaria as broadly defined would suggest that they are obvious candidates for a leading role in such efforts. The current situation in North America suggests that reality is otherwise. Institutional participation in the Lake Victoria Cichlid Species Survival Plan, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ only formally constituted aquatic conservation program, has declined from 31 in 1993 to 10 in 2016. Notwithstanding the modest resources such undertakings require, efforts to establish comparable programs for endangered North American desert and Malagasy fishes have foundered due to lack of institutional participation. This lack of commitment to a proven means of saving endangered species from extinction calls into question the oft-proclaimed commitment of public aquaria and zoos to the preservation of global biodiversity.
While it hardly excuses the industry’s failure in this regard, the scope of the threat to freshwater fishes is such that even the total commitment of institutional resources world-wide would be insufficient to the task of saving a significant percentage of the world’s endangered freshwater fishes. This objective can only be accomplished by tapping into the expertise and resources that both serious aquarium hobbyists and the ornamental fish industry can bring to the effort and harmonizing captive breeding programs with in situ conservation programs in range states. Public aquariums are potentially well placed to coordinate such efforts. However, before they can credibly position themselves to assume such a role, they must demonstrate their conservation bona fides by committing significant resources to existing captive breeding efforts and broadening the scope of such initiatives to include the fish communities of other threatened freshwater biomes.
While the preservation of viable habitat is the preferred method of assuring the survival of threatened species, political and economic realities preclude the timely implementation of this strategy in most highly biodiverse regions. Captive breeding represents the only viable means of assuring the near-term survival of a significant number of these threatened fishes. The husbandry expertise and oft-proclaimed conservation mission of public aquaria as broadly defined would suggest that they are obvious candidates for a leading role in such efforts. The current situation in North America suggests that reality is otherwise. Institutional participation in the Lake Victoria Cichlid Species Survival Plan, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ only formally constituted aquatic conservation program, has declined from 31 in 1993 to 10 in 2016. Notwithstanding the modest resources such undertakings require, efforts to establish comparable programs for endangered North American desert and Malagasy fishes have foundered due to lack of institutional participation. This lack of commitment to a proven means of saving endangered species from extinction calls into question the oft-proclaimed commitment of public aquaria and zoos to the preservation of global biodiversity.
While it hardly excuses the industry’s failure in this regard, the scope of the threat to freshwater fishes is such that even the total commitment of institutional resources world-wide would be insufficient to the task of saving a significant percentage of the world’s endangered freshwater fishes. This objective can only be accomplished by tapping into the expertise and resources that both serious aquarium hobbyists and the ornamental fish industry can bring to the effort and harmonizing captive breeding programs with in situ conservation programs in range states. Public aquariums are potentially well placed to coordinate such efforts. However, before they can credibly position themselves to assume such a role, they must demonstrate their conservation bona fides by committing significant resources to existing captive breeding efforts and broadening the scope of such initiatives to include the fish communities of other threatened freshwater biomes.
For the love of fish, we're in it together ‐ the importance of the aquarium hobby to public aquaria - Laura Simmons, Cairns Marine
Full Abstract
The aquarium industry is under attack. Both public and private aquaria are being demonized by activist groups around the world. This criticism is causing a divide in an industry that should be united. As public aquarium aquarists we need to understand the link between our businesses and the hobby; how private and public aquaria are inextricably linked. Most innovation in aquarium keeping has come from the private sector or by companies supplying it. Public aquaria are making important contributions like education and conservation but the reality is that the world of aquarium keeping is driven by hobbyists, whether it be lighting technology, advances in life support systems, water chemistry/quality analysis or provision of livestock, suppliers could never survive on public institutions alone. The entire industry is under scrutiny, we need to be allies. Supporting and working together is the only way to survive and continue the work we love.
1.2 Welfare
Welfare Topics
Welfare and sustainability of live animal collections for public aquariums - Chris Andrews, SEA LIFE Aquarium
Full Abstract
Unlike zoos, and aquariums specializing in freshwater organisms, a large proportion of the marine fish, elasmobranchs and invertebrates in public aquariums are obtained from the wild, exposing them to potential criticism regarding how the animals are collected, and their care and welfare during the acquisition, transport and acclimation process. This presentation with discuss one approach to better understand the supply chains used to provide these wild‐caught animals for public aquariums, and how the results may be used to improve animal welfare and – ultimately – sustainability practices.
Water Science in an Aquarium: How Does It Fit, Where Does It Fit, and How Do We Utilize It? - Kasie Regnier, Monterey Bay Aquarium
Full Abstract
The Applied Research department at the Monterey Bay Aquarium consists of 14 specialists from a number of different fields of water science, with a vast majority of staff originally hailing from outside the aquarium industry. Since the 1990s days of providing water quality data to aquarists, the team has grown dramatically into an interdisciplinary department working in water quality, microbiology, environmental science, research, exhibit design, and life support design. The journey and growth behind how these specific positions have been born, have evolved, and have finally settled into a new structure in 2019 provides an interesting model in which to examine the role of these sciences, and scientists, in our industry. Where does water science actually fit in, and how can niche scientific roles come together cohesively to bridge husbandry, facilities, and exhibit design components within a single facility?
Aquatic Animal Welfare Discussion - Allen McDowell and Dr. Lara Metrione, NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island and SEZARC
Full Abstract
This discussion includes the new AZA Welfare Assessment standard and the SEZARC workshop held at White Oak.
A New Kind of Fish Tattoo: Better Medical Management through Individual Identification of an Aquatic Collection - Megan Olhasso, California Science Center
Full Abstract
As advancements are made in aquatic medicine, it is becoming crucial to maintain accurate, thorough records of individual animal treatments, movements and daily behaviors. Individual identification is the backbone that makes trending medical history possible; allowing for better decision making and interpreting success of treatment and of management choices. When fish are not individually identified, they become lost to follow up as soon as they leave the hospital system. It becomes impossible to determine if the next similar case is a reoccurrence or a new case. At the California Science Center, we have implemented four ways of individualizing fish: visible implant elastomer for ‘fish tattoos’, notching, microchips and photo identification. The most broadly functional technique is visible implant elastomer (VIE). By grouping similar-looking species of fish into a spreadsheet, we are able to ensure that two fish cannot be mistaken for one another. It allows our divers to give accurate and detailed information about feeding behaviors, which then enables us to track medical treatments and easily communicate observations. VIE does not work on all dermal types. The use of notching and/or microchips on elasmobranches has proven to be an excellent way of maintaining current, accurate information and we are seeing similar results using photo identification as descriptors in marine invertebrate medical care – as we continue to explore new options in identification. Being proactive about individually identifying our collection has mainstreamed the flow of communication about individual animals rather than groups of animals. We are able to follow cases and determine if our treatment and management plans are successful. It allows us to recognize medical trends, identify problems, and create a data base of information that makes medical records and daily husbandry logs effective resources.
Killing Keiko: A Cautionary Tale of One Whale - Mark A. Simmons, Executive Vice President, Ocean Embassy, Inc. and Managing Partner, OERCA (Present), Director of the Keiko Animal Behavior Team on the Keiko Release Project (Past)
Full Abstract
Millions of Free Willy movie enthusiasts have been led to believe that Keiko’s return to the wild was a triumph. After the syndication of the film Blackfish, Keiko’s story once again became a rallying cry for anti-zoo proponents calling for the release of other killer whales in zoological care. But according to author Mark Simmons, director of the Keiko Animal Behavior Team on the Keiko Release Project, the whale’s riveting story is one of unnecessary tragedy. This lecture, Killing Keiko: A Cautionary Tale of One Whale, unveils the shocking evolution and collapse of the whale’s rehabilitation, covering his final trek across the North Atlantic to his heart-wrenching death in Norway. Simmons discusses the most influential factors, covering theories behind the rehabilitation plan, behavioral excesses and deficits, the organizations role in the outcome and the concept of captivity and the modern zoo. In life, Keiko was undoubtedly the most famous whale in history. In death, he became the most famous case of animal abuse the world cannot yet fathom. Simmons illuminates the true story of Keiko’s journey and shows why it is more important now than ever before.
Mark began his career in 1987 in marine mammal behavioral sciences, working almost exclusively with killer whales. In 1998 he formed a consulting firm, Wildlife International Network along with highly regarded marine mammal expert and close friend Robin Friday. The following April of 1999, Simmons joined the Keiko Release Project as the director of animal husbandry and led the behavior team on-site in Iceland. There he authored and applied the behavioral rehabilitation blueprint for reintroduction that gained approval from the Icelandic Ministry of Fisheries for Keiko’s formal release. Simmons went on to create Ocean Embassy, whereby his team assists governments on protective marine legislation, participates in ongoing research with marine mammals and is heavily involved in the rescue and rehabilitation of sick and stranded animals. He has provided consulting on marine mammal health assessment and recovery, training program evaluation and development, and zoological program management to numerous agencies such as NOAA/NMFS and facilities worldwide in the United States, Mexico, Singapore, Bahamas, U.A.E., Philippines, Iceland, Jamaica, Panama, China and St. Lucia. Simmons also created and continues to provide visionary leadership of a large-scale research and conservation database called OERCA that serves global wildlife management needs. He has taught marine mammal behavioral science at the University of Miami and conducted numerous seminars and public lectures on the Keiko Release Project.
Mark began his career in 1987 in marine mammal behavioral sciences, working almost exclusively with killer whales. In 1998 he formed a consulting firm, Wildlife International Network along with highly regarded marine mammal expert and close friend Robin Friday. The following April of 1999, Simmons joined the Keiko Release Project as the director of animal husbandry and led the behavior team on-site in Iceland. There he authored and applied the behavioral rehabilitation blueprint for reintroduction that gained approval from the Icelandic Ministry of Fisheries for Keiko’s formal release. Simmons went on to create Ocean Embassy, whereby his team assists governments on protective marine legislation, participates in ongoing research with marine mammals and is heavily involved in the rescue and rehabilitation of sick and stranded animals. He has provided consulting on marine mammal health assessment and recovery, training program evaluation and development, and zoological program management to numerous agencies such as NOAA/NMFS and facilities worldwide in the United States, Mexico, Singapore, Bahamas, U.A.E., Philippines, Iceland, Jamaica, Panama, China and St. Lucia. Simmons also created and continues to provide visionary leadership of a large-scale research and conservation database called OERCA that serves global wildlife management needs. He has taught marine mammal behavioral science at the University of Miami and conducted numerous seminars and public lectures on the Keiko Release Project.
1.3 Sustainability & Collection Planning
Sustainability and Collection Planning Topics
Sustainable Institutional Collection Planning - Mark Smith, New England Aquarium
Full Abstract
Public aquaria aspire to be centers for research, conservation, and education, as well as models for sustainability. In this endeavor public aquaria inspire their visitors through representation of marine and freshwater ecosystems by displaying a wide variety of aquatic organisms. The New England Aquarium alone presents over 850 different species. When selecting species for exhibition, it is critical to consider the following: justifiable rationales for acquiring a species; available infrastructure and operational capacity; animal husbandry capacity and animal welfare implications; a longterm deaccession plan; and sustainable sources for chosen display animals. The New England Aquarium addresses these demands through a structured planning process, using a set of Strategic Program Criteria and an Exhibition Species Selection Flowchart, implemented through a sustainable collection committee. Display animals are sourced through: (1) sustainable wild collection by aquarium personnel; (2) well-managed wild fisheries, where ecosystems are preserved and local communities benefit; (3) reputable, sustainable commercial collectors and aquaculture companies; (4) trading of surplus animals with other reputable institutions; and (5) culture of species breeding within the Aquarium. One mechanism employed at the Aquarium to improve collection sustainability is the strategic breeding and rearing of fish species highly demanded within the industry, yet rarely (or not yet) bred in human care. Examples include the blue chromis (Chromis cyanea), lookdowns (Selene vomer) and the smallmouth grunt (Haemulon chrysargyreum). In addition to careful stewardship of its living collection, the New England Aquarium regularly reviews its animal food sources to ensure sustainable practice is employed.
Aquatic Collection Sustainability - Hap Fatzinger, North Carolina Aquariums
Full Abstract
Aquatic collection sustainability has been a priority across our facilities and AZA for decades. Great work has been accomplished and AZA animal programs continue to grow and build upon the foundation of work developed by leaders in our field. Over the past year, a surge of efforts has captured the attention and support of AZA and institutional leadership. This presentation will discuss the development of the AZA Board‐approved Aquatic Collections Sustainability Special Committee, outline the five priorities identified for action and share future opportunities for supporting the work.
Collaborative Aquatic Population Management Programs of the Association of the Zoos and Aquariums - Paula Carlson, Dallas World Aquarium
Full Abstract
With the accelerating decline of ocean habitats, species diversity and fish and invertebrate populations from anthropogenic sourced environmental changes and the ever increasing popularity of public aquariums worldwide, aquatic animal populations in human care require focused and collaborative management and creative sourcing strategies more than ever. In January 2016, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) adopted its “Sustainability Considerations for Developing an Aquatic Invertebrate & Fish Collection Plan” to support conscientious stewardship of aquatic natural resources and to ensure that members create and maintain administrative policies and animal collection plans that support sustainable practices. The plan approaches animal collection sustainability within the AZA aquarium community from several angles and reinforces the need for effective collaborative management of aquatic collections in human care. Positioned in strong support of this collaborative effort are the AZA Taxon Advisory Groups (TAGs), their Species Survival Plans (SSPs) and studbooks. Currently, the AZA’s Wildlife Conservation Management Committee (WCMC) oversees 500 cooperatively managed programs. Of these 500 programs, three aquatic TAGs, the Marine Fish TAG, the Freshwater Fish TAG and the Aquatic Invertebrate TAG, manage 40 individual SSPs and studbooks. These programs are the epicenter of aquatic conservation and population management within AZA. While the TAG’s sole charge is to recommend taxa for cooperatively managed programs and to support collaborative approaches to meet collection needs of member institutions, TAGs and their SSPs also serve as taxa experts and conservation champions to the AZA community at large. As a crucial and complimentary component of the new AZA collection sustainability plan, these animal management programs provide the labor, leadership, expertise and vision needed to address the needs of the AZA member institutions now and into the future.
Collaborative Aquatic Population Management Programs of the Association of the Zoos and Aquariums - Charles Delbeek Steinhart Aquarium
Full Abstract
With the accelerating decline of ocean habitats, species diversity and fish and invertebrate populations from anthropogenic sourced environmental changes and the ever increasing popularity of public aquariums worldwide, aquatic animal populations in human care require focused and collaborative management and creative sourcing strategies more than ever. In January 2016, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) adopted its “Sustainability Considerations for Developing an Aquatic Invertebrate & Fish Collection Plan” to support conscientious stewardship of aquatic natural resources and to ensure that members create and maintain administrative policies and animal collection plans that support sustainable practices. The plan approaches animal collection sustainability within the AZA aquarium community from several angles and reinforces the need for effective collaborative management of aquatic collections in human care. Positioned in strong support of this collaborative effort are the AZA Taxon Advisory Groups (TAGs), their Species Survival Plans (SSPs) and studbooks. Currently, the AZA’s Wildlife Conservation Management Committee (WCMC) oversees 500 cooperatively managed programs. Of these 500 programs, three aquatic TAGs, the Marine Fish TAG, the Freshwater Fish TAG and the Aquatic Invertebrate TAG, manage 40 individual SSPs and studbooks. These programs are the epicenter of aquatic conservation and population management within AZA. While the TAG’s sole charge is to recommend taxa for cooperatively managed programs and to support collaborative approaches to meet collection needs of member institutions, TAGs and their SSPs also serve as taxa experts and conservation champions to the AZA community at large. As a crucial and complimentary component of the new AZA collection sustainability plan, these animal management programs provide the labor, leadership, expertise and vision needed to address the needs of the AZA member institutions now and into the future.
Collaborative Aquatic Population Management Programs of the Association of the Zoos and Aquariums - George Brandy, Houston Zoo
Full Abstract
With the accelerating decline of ocean habitats, species diversity and fish and invertebrate populations from anthropogenic sourced environmental changes and the ever increasing popularity of public aquariums worldwide, aquatic animal populations in human care require focused and collaborative management and creative sourcing strategies more than ever. In January 2016, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) adopted its “Sustainability Considerations for Developing an Aquatic Invertebrate & Fish Collection Plan” to support conscientious stewardship of aquatic natural resources and to ensure that members create and maintain administrative policies and animal collection plans that support sustainable practices. The plan approaches animal collection sustainability within the AZA aquarium community from several angles and reinforces the need for effective collaborative management of aquatic collections in human care. Positioned in strong support of this collaborative effort are the AZA Taxon Advisory Groups (TAGs), their Species Survival Plans (SSPs) and studbooks. Currently, the AZA’s Wildlife Conservation Management Committee (WCMC) oversees 500 cooperatively managed programs. Of these 500 programs, three aquatic TAGs, the Marine Fish TAG, the Freshwater Fish TAG and the Aquatic Invertebrate TAG, manage 40 individual SSPs and studbooks. These programs are the epicenter of aquatic conservation and population management within AZA. While the TAG’s sole charge is to recommend taxa for cooperatively managed programs and to support collaborative approaches to meet collection needs of member institutions, TAGs and their SSPs also serve as taxa experts and conservation champions to the AZA community at large. As a crucial and complimentary component of the new AZA collection sustainability plan, these animal management programs provide the labor, leadership, expertise and vision needed to address the needs of the AZA member institutions now and into the future.
European Aquatic Breeding Programs (FAITAG) - Max Janse, Royal Burgers' Zoo
Full Abstract
The oceans, which encompass 70% of the Earth’s surface, have a major effect on the global environment. To understand the mechanisms behind climate change and abnormal weather patterns, we must closely study the oceans. There is also a need to both study and promote the use of the diverse and vast developments in marine technology and observational equipment to learn about the oceans and the conservation practices of the organisms that reside in them. The Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC) was established in 1971 as a core research institution, both domestically and internationally, to carry out marine exploration and research into underwater technology. JAMSTEC is also making rapid progress in the International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) utilizing the deep-ocean exploration ship, the Chikyu, to predict changes in the Earth’s environment and discover the inner layers of the planet, while they also explore the origins of life and the extremophile organisms that thrive in the low temperature and high pressure deep-ocean environment. The Enoshima Aquarium began collaborative research with JAMSTEC in 2004. Through the Enoshima Aquarium’s exhibitions of deep sea life and the deep-sea submersible Shinkai 2000, we will show you the conservation efforts that are being made towards the ocean ecosystem and all of the biodiversity of marine life.
Are Your Fish Legal? An Analysis of the Regulatory and Permitting for Wild Sourced Display Animals out of Florida and the Eastern US - Ben Daughtry, Dynasty Marine
Full Abstract
As an active participant in the marine life fishery to public aquariums for more than 3 decades the complexity of fisheries management, reporting, permitting and compliance has increased substantially. Many species are newly being evaluated for additional protections at state, national, and international levels using SAL, HMS, ESA, and CITES. Taking an active part in the fishery management process and being a proactive participant in helping to craft intelligent conservation regulations to insure long term sustainability is essential. Industries hand in developing best practices for legally and properly collecting and shipping these specimens is discussed. The objective within is to help public aquariums to understand what is necessary to ensure that your collection is legal and that aquariums can continue to source wild caught animals in a legal, sustainable, and ethical way into the future.
For the love of fish, we're in it together ‐ the importance of the aquarium hobby to public aquaria - Laura Simmons, Cairns Marine
Full Abstract
The aquarium industry is under attack. Both public and private aquaria are being demonized by activist groups around the world. This criticism is causing a divide in an industry that should be united. As public aquarium aquarists we need to understand the link between our businesses and the hobby; how private and public aquaria are inextricably linked. Most innovation in aquarium keeping has come from the private sector or by companies supplying it. Public aquaria are making important contributions like education and conservation but the reality is that the world of aquarium keeping is driven by hobbyists, whether it be lighting technology, advances in life support systems, water chemistry/quality analysis or provision of livestock, suppliers could never survive on public institutions alone. The entire industry is under scrutiny, we need to be allies. Supporting and working together is the only way to survive and continue the work we love.