Conservation and Propagation Abstracts
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Smells Like Ctene Spirit:
Methods for culturing the Comb Jellies (Ctenophora) Mnemiopsis spp. Pleurobracia bachei, and Bolinopsis infundibulum MacKenzie Bubel and Thomas Knowles, Monterey Bay Aquarium Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
Comb jellies (Ctenophora) are popular aquarium exhibit animals due to their unique body plans, translucence, and the prismatic effect of their cilia on exhibit lighting. Acquiring them for exhibits can be challenging, however, as they are not always available from wild sources, and historically they’ve been impossible to culture. Only Mnemiopsis spp. has been cultured by a small number of scientific institutions. While literature regarding spawing and developing embryos is abundant, information outlining post-hatch development and successful culturing is currently lacking. Therefore, there is a great need within the aquarium industry for developing ctenophore husbandry protocols. We will present culturing techniques for three types of comb jelly; Mnemiopsis spp., which is the most common ctenophore genus exhibited in aquariums, and two species local to Monterey Bay: Pleurobrachia bachei and Bolinopsis infundibulum. We will discuss tank set-ups, feeding strategies, and the water parameters needed to grow and spawn successive generations of comb jellies. |
Practical Techniques for Free-Range Mobula Health Assessments Charlene Burns, Disney's the Seas Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
In recent years’ new species, such as Mobula hypostoma, have been appearing in aquaria worldwide. In order to become more knowledgeable on their general health and nutritional needs, we need to understand the health/condition of their free-ranging counterparts. We can apply the information gathered from ultrasound, blood collection, gastric lavage, and body measurements to help aquariums maintain healthier specimens. |
Shark Ray Breeding - What a Difference 711 days make! Mark Dvornak, Newport Aquarium Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
In late 2015, Newport Aquarium confirmed that its two female shark rays (Rhina ancylostoma) were pregnant. On 5 January 2016, the older female “Sweet Pea” gave birth 711 days after her first litter in January 2014. This long period between the 2014 and 2016 births provided Newport Aquarium biologists ample time to review and analyze the first unsuccessful experience with neonate shark rays. The knowledge gained from the first group of pups was the foundation for a new approach in caring for neonate shark rays, one that has proven to be successful to date. The presentation will detail the husbandry changes made by the biologists for the second group of neonates, as well as discuss the second female’s pregnancy that did not reach full term.n late 2015, Newport Aquarium confirmed that its two female shark rays (Rhina ancylostoma) were pregnant. On 5 January 2016, the older female “Sweet Pea” gave birth 711 days after her first litter in January 2014. This long period between the 2014 and 2016 births provided Newport Aquarium biologists ample time to review and analyze the first unsuccessful experience with neonate shark rays. The knowledge gained from the first group of pups was the foundation for a new approach in caring for neonate shark rays, one that has proven to be successful to date. The presentation will detail the husbandry changes made by the biologists for the second group of neonates, as well as discuss the second female’s pregnancy that did not reach full term. |
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Bonnethead Husbandry:
Challenges and Successes from Parturition to Quaratine Shannon Mahoney and Christine Sinnigen, New England Aquarium Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
On August 7, 2014, with the collaborative efforts for wild capture with South Carolina Aquarium (SCAq), the New England Aquarium (NEAq) became home to two gravid adult female bonnethead sharks (Sphyrna tiburo). The females were housed in a 30’ L x 15’ W x 4’ D oval tank. Sedated exams were performed shortly after acquisition to remove hooks and confirm pregnancy for both individuals via ultrasound. Parturition occurred on November 2, 2014 and November 15, 2014 respectively. The first bonnethead birth resulted in 7 healthy pups (6 females, 1 male), whereas the second pupping event two weeks later resulted in 8 pups, 5 of which were stillborn and 3 that died shortly after birth. Sixteen months of husbandry and veterinary care for the adult females, pre and post parturition, and 13 months of care for the bonnethead pups are outlined, including the transition of the two adult females to exhibit in the NEAq’s Caribbean Reef Exhibit (Giant Ocean Tank). |
Almost Three Decades of Husbandry of Bonnethead Shark Pups Juan Bernal, Dynasty Marine Associates, Inc Watch Video (Login required) . Full Abstract
Dynasty Marine Associates, Inc. has been rearing captive born bonnethead shark (Sphyrna tiburo) pups from wild caught female bonnethead sharks since 1989. The Dynasty Marine Transport Team made the very first successful air shipment of any hammerhead shark species by shipping 10 captive born bonnethead pups to the Tokyo Sea Life Park for their opening in 1989. This achievement was followed by the very first air transport of any large hammerhead species, in this case Sphyrna lewini, to Beijing in 1998. To acquire broodstock, we access wild caught pregnant females because the Dynasty Marine Husbandry Facility has no room nor budget to maintain a reproductively active colony of bonnethead sharks. During this time, we have enjoyed many successes and encountered some highly vexing problems. This presentation will discuss the techniques used in the husbandry of these animals including feeding, prophylactic treatments (using Trichlorfon, (Dylox), Praziquantel, Dimilin and several antibiotics). Most of the diseases and problems that have been found whilst rearing more than 1000 pups during almost 3 decades will be discussed. We will present brief video clips of bonnethead pups exhibiting the most frequent abnormal behavioral swim patterns associated with the hypothetical neurological diseases affecting these captive born sharks. Further we will give related basic statistical information for some of the most recent year classes, indicating the incidence and evolution of these diseases during the first 6 months of holding after birth. |
São Tomé -
A poorly known Atlantic biodiversity hot-spot Joao Correia, Flying Sharks Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
No abstract |
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Commensal Relationship of the Banggai Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni) Alicia Longo, Adventure Aquarium Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
Endemic to the Banggai Archipeligo, Eastern Indonesia, the Banggai Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni) is a heavily exploited species popular within the aquarium industry. As of 2007, this species is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List and is currently under review for its inclusion in the Endangered Species Act, due to its extreme restrictive geographic distribution, low productivity, high genetic structure, overexploitation, and threats to habitats and microhabitats. For its protection, P. kauderni relies on its commenstalistic association with living benthic invertebrates, mainly sea urchins, corals, and anemones; these commensal relationships are essential for its survival at all life stages. In the wild, P. kauderni has been observed in close proximity with tentacles of anemones, seemingly without triggering discharge of nematocysts or a feeding reaction from the hosts, including newly released juveniles. A laboratory experiment was carried out to investigate if P. kauderni possess an ‘innate’ protection against nematocyst discharge and/or toxins of its various host anemones, in particular newly released juveniles and brooding males. A group of fifteen captive-bred P. kauderni were purchased to ensure no prior sensory or chemical exposure to anemones, and reproduction occurred in isolation in a fish-only breeding system. Brooding males and newly released juveniles were then introduced to two known host anemones species in an anemone holding system using a forced contact method to observe behaviors of subject fish and anemones upon initial contact. Results showed minimal stinging response and 100% survivability of fish tested. It is concluded that the protection exhibited by P. kauderni against nematocyst discharge is likely innate. Further studies will aim to determine the physiology of P. kauderni’s protection against the defensive and predatory responses of sea anemones, and experimentation including sea urchins (Diadema sp.) and host anemones is being designed to give insight on microhabitat selection by P. kauderni juveniles. |
'Cowbird' of the Sea, Lazy Parents or
Just a Coincidence? Rearing the Planehead Filefish (Stephanolepis hispidus) Monika Schmuck, New England Aquarium Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
On June 7, 2015, a substrate nest dusted with demersal eggs was carefully extracted from the New England Aquarium’s (NEAq) largest exhibit, the Caribbean Reef Exhibit, or ‘Giant Ocean Tank.’ Since divers observed the blue chromis (Chromis cyanea) defending the collection site, the eggs were then promptly transported to the NEAq’s Animal Care Center in Quincy, Mass, in hopes of rearing them as a focus species under the institutional larval fishes sustainability project. However, about a week later, the story began to take shape: at 7 dph, a prominent dorsal spine became oddly apparent. With the beginnings of ventral spine by 12 dph, it was undeniably evident that these were not blue chromis larvae, but filefish! Five species of Monacanthidae were exhibited in the ‘Giant Ocean Tank’ at this time, but it wasn’t until 65 dph when it was feasible to count fin rays and positively identify them as Stephanolepis hispidus. |
Eat This, Not That! Raising Aquarium Animals to be Responsible Seafood Consumers Michelle Cho, New England Aquarium Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
The New England Aquarium’s Conservation Department works with the Aquarium’s Animal Care Team to regularly assess the source fisheries of the fishes and invertebrates they feed to the collection animals. Most of these fishes and invertebrates are ‘forage’ species, which have unique life-history characteristics and play a vital role in the food web, feeding the populations many marine animals in the wild. The internal assessments focus on the impacts these fisheries have on the surrounding environment by evaluating the following: the health of the target species population; the effectiveness of the way the fisheries are managed; the amount and composition of bycatch in the fisheries, whether or not they interact with protected, threatened, or endangered species; and the extent of fishing gears’ contact with the bottom habitat. The results of the assessments are used in conjunction with animal nutritional and health needs, taste, size, and texture preferences, and other important factors to distinguish between different species choices and formulate recommendations for alternative species (including aquacultured species), where applicable. To date, the Animal Care Team has tried new products, including farmed trout and invasive green crabs, switched some sources to less impactful fisheries, including squid and smelt, and committed to diversifying food items for the animals.he New England Aquarium’s Conservation Department works with the Aquarium’s Animal Care Team to regularly assess the source fisheries of the fishes and invertebrates they feed to the collection animals. Most of these fishes and invertebrates are ‘forage’ species, which have unique life-history characteristics and play a vital role in the food web, feeding the populations many marine animals in the wild. The internal assessments focus on the impacts these fisheries have on the surrounding environment by evaluating the following: the health of the target species population; the effectiveness of the way the fisheries are managed; the amount and composition of bycatch in the fisheries, whether or not they interact with protected, threatened, or endangered species; and the extent of fishing gears’ contact with the bottom habitat. The results of the assessments are used in conjunction with animal nutritional and health needs, taste, size, and texture preferences, and other important factors to distinguish between different species choices and formulate recommendations for alternative species (including aquacultured species), where applicable. To date, the Animal Care Team has tried new products, including farmed trout and invasive green crabs, switched some sources to less impactful fisheries, including squid and smelt, and committed to diversifying food items for the animals. |
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Small Scale Aquaculture, What Does It Take? Ramon Villaverde, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
There are many reasons for breeding animals at institutions rather than sourcing through wild collection. Some of those justifications include sourcing cost, limited availability of endangered species, and poor shipping survival. Many facilities have a large exhibit in which their inhabitants naturally reproduce but do not attempt to rear because of concerns of space and time commitment. I will give an overview of how we, at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, have utilized opportunistic spawning events to rear animals in house how much time it really takes. I will breakdown the daily tasks it takes to rear fish and invertebrates starting with live food cultures and maintenance of larval rearing systems without overloading one’s time commitments. |
Eat A Pilot Study of the Effect of Gut Loading Live Artemia sp. with Probiotics on Survival During the Pelagic Phase of Juvenile Hippocampus erectus
Colby Johnson, Oregon Coast Community College Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
Seahorse aquaculture is continuing to grow due to high global demand for live and dried specimens. However, several bottlenecks in culture exist with catastrophic losses often occurring during the first few weeks of rearing (CITE SOURCE). Several studies have indicated higher survival rates and increased growth in certain fish species when adding probiotics to the larval diet (Kozasa 1986). The purpose of this pilot study was to examine what if any effects would be observed when feeding Lined Seahorses (Hippocampus erectus) enriched Artemia nauplii gut loaded with probiotics from 0 to 8-11 Days Post Release (DPR). Specifically, I examined the INVE product Sanolife MIC-F containing the bacteria Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus licheniformis and Bacillus pumilu (Blundell 2008). Two broods of H. erectus juveniles (n= 206, n= 223) born over a three-day period were distributed evenly into two 38L tanks. Both cohorts received enriched 36HR post hatch Artemia metanauplii, however only one tank received probiotic addition to the feed. Preliminary results indicate that probiotic gut loading of Artemia nauplii may result in deleterious positive buoyancy, possibly from increased bacterial activity in the gut. Survival rates between the two tanks varied significantly with the probiotic treatment exhibiting 62% survival and the non-probiotic treatment exhibiting a 77% survival to 8-11 DPR. The data from this preliminary trial indicate that the use of probiotics in Day 0 post release Hippocampus erectus juveniles may contribute to positive buoyancy leading the fry to become trapped at the water surface meniscus, resulting in increased juvenile mortality. I suggest further studies on the use of probiotics in seahorse culture to examine this problem. This study contributes to the potential use of probiotics in seahorse culture. To the best of my knowledge this is the first quantitative trial on the use of probiotic enriched feed in Day 0 post release juvenile H. erectus. |
Mariculture of Diadema antillarum for Reef Restoration Jon Than, Florida Aquarium Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
Populations of Diadema antillarum, the long spined sea urchin, were decimated throughout the Florida Keys, the Bahamas, and Caribbean waters in 1983 after an unknown pathogen killed up to 98 percent of this species from the coral reefs. It has been shown that the die-off of this keystone herbivore corresponded with the loss of coral, including Acropora cervicornis, due to algal overgrowth. Between 2008-2012 Mr. Martin Moe and Dr. David Vaughn made great advancements in deciphering the requirements for successfully culturing Diadema for reef restoration. These achievements included keeping fecund adults in breeding condition, spawning, maintaining larvae from spawn to settling, including settling larvae under the appropriate cues and metamorphosis into juveniles. Despite protocol rigor, they have not been able to repeat this process since 2012. The objective of this research was to work with Moe to see if we can replicate the early success and in turn, determine the reasons that could have caused the 2012 and 2015 failures. In three independent larval rearing trials since August 2015, we have been running trials at our Apollo Beach facility while Moe continued his work in the Florida Keys. Using identical protocols and local water and algae, we were able to successfully spawn, develop and settle Diadema from the second trial at Apollo Beach. We will discuss the techniques and methods used to perform these trials, as well as compare and contrast the differences between Florida Keys and Apollo Beach to identify potential confounding factors. Identification and correction of the factors that are preventing consistent rearing consistent rearing success will allow development of a Diadema mariculture project for restoration to reefs. |
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Aussie Masters: Sustainable Coral Collections from Pristine Reefs Lyle Squire Jr., Cairns Marine Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
Some corals are so extraordinary in their color, quality and uniqueness they have earned a special name; they’re known as “master corals”. Where they come from in Australia is special too; the pristine waters of the world heritage listed Great Barrier Reef. The Great Barrier Reef and adjoining Coral Sea have long been known as the source of some of the best marine fishes and invertebrates in the world, and with the growing popularity of living coral reef aquaria, the reputation has grown. This presentation will provide some insight into how and why the specimens coming from this region are so incredible and different. Comprehensive video and graphics of the areas in which some of the most desired iconic Aussie corals, like Acropora anthocercis (“Tiera del Fuego”), Acropora microlados (“strawberry shortcake”) and Acropora echinata (“blue bottlebrush”), live and thrive will be shown. Also included will be rare footage of the inter-reef zone depicting the preferred habitat of enigmatic species like Acanthophyllia, Trachyphyllia and Catalaphyllia. From the incredible habitats of these corals, the ocean environment will also be considered. Comprehensive analysis of the water found in the immediate proximity where these corals are collected provides an exciting and logical step in the development of coral husbandry into the future. The results of preliminary tests will be shared and provide surprising results that may revolutionize the art of coral keeping. In addition to information about the wild environment of these specimens, the sustainable collection methodology will be revealed to further the understanding of fishery management, husbandry and infrastructure required to facilitate the shortest of live coral supply chains. All of these components in combination are a must in order for master corals to be displayed in aquaria. |
Fuzzy Wuzzy Was a ... Nautilus! Rediscovering a lost sepcies (Allonautilus scrobiculatus) Gregory J. Barord, CUNY Brooklyn College Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
Nautiluses are disappearing. Nautiluses are disappearing because humans are mining them to extinction. Humans are mining nautiluses to extinction so they can have their shell, or a necklace, or an earring. Humans are loving nautiluses to death. Nautiluses are dying because of this love. It’s time for humans to love the right way. Allonautilus scrobiculatus is the new nautilus on the scene. Also called the fuzzy nautilus, Allonautilus represents a new genera of nautiloid evolution in a couple million years. The whole idea of nautiluses being ‘living fossils’ is being challenged. Nautiluses are highly evolved cephalopods adapting to their environment just like anything other species. Papua New Guinea represents the only confirmed place where Allonautilus scrobiculatus exists. To top it off, A. scrobiculatus exists sympatrically with Nautilus pompilius. Papua New Guinea also represents an area of the world ripe for expansion and industrialization, evidenced by recent mining operations in the deep sea already being approved. What could this mean for the fuzzy, wuzzy nautilus? What could this mean for the not so fuzzy, wuzzy nautilus? What could this mean for the deep sea ecosystem as a whole? What could this mean for Papua New Guinea? The World? In August 2015, our team traveled to Papua New Guinea to address these questions. Working with the local Mbunai tribe, we used a combination of methods, including underwater video, ultrasonic transmitters, and genetic analyses, to survey Allonautilus, Nautilus, and the deep sea ecosystem they share. What we were left with was hope, trepidation, thankfulness, and fear. The history of nautiluses shows us that they have survived for hundreds of millions of years, through all five mass extinctions. The future is less clear. How will humans continue to love nautiluses? How will you love nautiluses in the future? |
Double Your Goodeids, Double Your Fun: Collaborating with Students to Increase Breeding Efforts and Promote
Goodeid Conservation Josh Tellier, Audubon Aquarium of the Americas Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
Nearly all goodeid species are in trouble in the wild, and according to the IUCN, roughly half are considered threatened or extinct. In addition to AZA FFTAG participants, there are a number of organizations like the American Livebearer Association (ALA) and the Goodeid Working Group (GWG) that are leading the charge in goodeid conservation; despite these efforts, these species are still underrepresented within the industry. Past RAW presentations and FFTAG meeting discussions have stressed that goodeids are excellent service aisle species, but many institutions simply lack the time and space required to maintain a population. I contend that institutions can still get involved in these efforts, even if they lack space for a dedicated goodeid holding system. Local schools with “service aisle space” and an interest in aquatic conservation can be an excellent resource to assist public aquariums in their goodeid breeding efforts. Giving students real-world, hands-on conservation experience can boost support for aquariums while encouraging students to pursue the hobby and potentially a career in the aquarium industry. Through this collaboration, aquariums can both promote goodeid conservation and spark the interest of the next generation of aquarists. In this presentation, we will examine how students benefit from these hands-on programs and some examples of student work in goodeid conservation. Additionally, we will look at Audubon's work with the White Trim Goodeid (Zoogoneticus tequila), a species considered to be extinct in the wild, and why this extremely vulnerable species may be the perfect focus species for student-aquarium collaborative conservation. |
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Utilizing the Beloved Seahorse
to Promote Marine Aquaculture Nancy Kim Pham Ho, Vero Beach Marine Lab Watch Video (Login required) Full Abstract
Due to their unusual attributes and charismatic nature, seahorses are popular animals exhibited in public aquariums. By using seahorses as a model species, we can engage students in aquarium science and marine conservation efforts. This iconic fish has been feeling the strains of several environmental and human effects on its population such as loss of habitat, and coastal run off. With recent advancements and new technologies in the aquaculture world, captive breeding and been applied as a key tool for conservation. Current projects include incorporating light-emitting diodes (LED) to evaluate carious light wavelength intensities, retinal mapping, and population genetics. With these results, we hope to enhance the knowledge of rearing seahorses, gain a better understanding of their wild and captive populations, and educate others about career opportunities in marine conservation. |