Propagation Abstracts

BREEDING COLD-WATER FISH AT AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC: COMPARING REARING STRATEGIES FOR THE LUMPSUCKER VS. THE SAILFIN SCULPIN

Janet Monday,
​Aquarium of the Pacific


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Full Abstract

The Pacific spiny lumpsucker (Eumicrotremus orbis) and the sailfin sculpin (Nautichthys oculofasciatus) both inhabit similar natural environments and are commonly exhibited coldwater fishes in public aquariums. We have successfully reared these animals at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach. In this presentation, I will talk about the care involved in keeping these species as well as the reproductive habits seen in their exhibits. I will also discuss the methods and strategies used to raise both species from egg to adult. Post-hatch, both species use different evolutionary strategies to conserve energy and survive in their environment. I will compare and contrast these differences. 

EXPERIENCES IN BROODING THE SUN POLYP CORAL, TUBASTRAEA SP

Bob Snowden,
​Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium



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Full Abstract

Sun polyp, Tubastraea sp., corals were acquired from a USFW confiscation in the early fall of 2010. These corals were originally collected in Indonesia. Brooding cycles in this coral are somewhat poorly understood, and it was not known what the actual planulation cycle, if any, would be considering that they were taken from another part of the world. Three of the specimens were placed into a harvester nightly for over 1 year to try and document their planulation cycles. These corals at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium are exposed to natural light via sky lights and large outdoor windows in front of the propagation systems. Being exposed to natural light levels, could elicit brooding based on lunar cycles and photoperiod. It is hoped that a cycle will make itself apparent in the data, which will help to optimize propagation efforts in the future. If a cycle is apparent in the data, either from moon data or otherwise, then harvesters only have to be set up during peak cycle times. Literature reports differing cycles in-situ with the only ex-situ reports being from flow through systems set up at the site of collection. The resulting corals from this type of propagation can be used as surplus to other AZA institutions, education, and exhibitry. This type of propagation could help relieve collection stress on wild populations.