EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 ABSTRACT BOOK
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EUAC CONFERENCE 2019
ABSTRACT BOOK
EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
DELPHINE PAULET
• PhD Sciences de Gestion, Paris 2 Pantheon Assas
• Veterinary PhD, 1999, Maisons Alfort
• Degree in Social Psychology (2002)
• Master General Management, MBA Change Management & Innovation (2008)
• Past member Executive Committee Aix-Marseille Graduate School of Management
• Certified Coach - ComProfiles®, PNL
• Dean, The NEXT MBA - Founder & President, TEDxAi
The reinvention of Public aquariums social impact in a changing society
As humans, we have for centuries tried to differentiate ourselves from the animal kingdom. Pinnacle of the known
unknowns, the unexplored depth of the oceans has given birth to many myths, while oceans represent more than 70%
of Earth surface and almost 95 per cent of living species.
While the rise of technologies could make us less and less human, a paradoxical effect is rising: we increasingly
understand the strong need to relate more to our natural environment and roots.
Developing research, fostering education and spreading knowledge, public aquaria have up taken the challenge to help us
discover, understand and protect aquatic ecosystems.
More and more, they are becoming cultural and educational hubs. Bridging science, education and culture with a unique
combination of top-notch research, pedagogy and experiential learning, they inspire their public and cater this growing
need for understanding better, and nurturing the world we live in.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 15EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
MARCO WEYDERT
Ph.D in oceanography
Marco Weydert got his Ph.D. in oceanography from the University of California (1985). After
a few years of research, he joined the European Commission, DG Research and Innovation,
to work on the Marine Sciences and Technologies Research Programme.
After some other assignments, he joined the Marine resources unit in 2014 and the Healthy
Seas and Oceans unit on 1 June this year.
Connecting our seas and ocean with our citizens
The author will discuss the importance of the oceans for our planet, climate, food security and well-being of us all. Urgently
a major effort to make citizens aware of the importance of a healthy and productive ocean is needed.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 15EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
GILLES DOIGNON
Gilles Doignon studied Marine Zoology at the Université Libre de Bruxelles and the Uni-
versité Pierre et Marie Curie (Paris VI). After 8 years in research, he became an adviser to
the aquaculture and fisheries sector in Wallonia. He then worked for several NGOs, cam-
paigning on discards for Oceana and as Global Seafood Leader for WWF. He joined the
European Commission in 2008, spending 10 years at DG Maritime Affairs & Fisheries on EU
funding, scientific advice and communication. He was the Communication Coordinator for
the 4th "Our Ocean" international conference hosted by the EU in 2017. He joined the DG
Environment Communication Unit in June 2018
World Aquariums against Marine Litter
Launched in the framework of the 4th Our Ocean conference, the "World Aquariums against marine litter" campaign was so
successful that the EU has decided to make it permanent.
Coordinated by the European Commission and the United Nations Environment Programme, the global coalition is
supported by the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco, the European Union of Aquarium Curators, the World Association
of Zoos & Aquariums, the U.S. Aquarium Conservation Partnership and the UNESCO Intergovernmental Oceanographic
Commission.
The network currently includes 185 aquariums raising awareness about plastic pollution in 41 countries.
Their actions reached millions, and helped prepare the political ground for the adoption of a new EU Directive on Single-Use
Plastics in 2019.
In the wake of this impressive success, the European Commission is now hoping to build a new global coalition around
Biodiversity, as scientists warn that 1 million species are currently at risk of extinction.
This coalition will be open to Aquariums, Botanic Gardens, National Parks, Zoos, and Natural History and Science
Museums.
Institutions will be invited to call on governments to agree decisive and urgent measures to restore and protect the planet’s
wildlife, and to adopt a New Deal for Nature at the 15th Conference of the Parties of the Convention on Biological Diversity
in China in October 2020.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 15EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
PAUL J. BOYLE
PhD
Dr. Paul Boyle is National Director of American Humane’s Global Humane CertifiedTM
program. This worldwide certification program is the first of its kind solely devoted to
helping verify the welfare and humane treatment of the millions of animals living in zoos,
aquariums, and other zoological venues. American Humane is the largest certifier of
animal welfare in the world. Previously, Paul served as Senior Vice President for
Conservation and Education at the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), which manages the
accreditation of zoos and aquariums serving 200 million people annually. His research seeks to
apply social and other scientific findings to expand conservation outcomes and to advance
animal care and welfare globally. A conservation strategist, Paul works with nature-based
organizations on environmental education and public engagement in conservation.
Dr. Boyle also served as Executive Director of the New York Aquarium, part of the Wildlife
Conservation Society. He founded The Ocean Project and co-founded the World Ocean Network
with 2,000 partner organizations in over 100 countries. He continues to serve as Chairman of
The Ocean Project and worked with colleagues from around the world to influence the United
Nations to designate June 8 as World Oceans Day. Dr. Boyle earned a Bachelor’s in Biology and
Marine Science at Northeastern University, and a Master’s in Environmental Engineering and a
Doctorate in Applied Environmental Sciences at Harvard University. He earned a certificate in
Executive Management at the Wharton Business School.
The Global Humane CertifiedTM Program
Animals enrich our lives and our planet, and with challenges facing species worldwide, humanity has a moral and ethical
obligation to protect threatened and endangered animals. In fact, good zoos and aquariums play more vital roles than ever
before in protecting species from extinction. Yet, increasingly, people are demanding that the humane treatment of animals
in human care be ensured. To fill the vital need for such a program, American Humane, founded in 1877 and, today, the
world’s largest certifier of the welfare of animals in working, farm, entertainment, and other environments, developed the
first-ever, genuinely independent, science- and evidence-based, third-party audit and humane certification program for zoos
and aquariums. Backed by the most well-respected names in animal science, welfare, and ethics, the standards driving the
Global Humane CertifiedTM program help ensure and verify the welfare and humane treatment of animals in human care at
the world’s zoological facilities.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 15EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
JEAN-LUC BOURGAIN
After studying marine biology, Jean-Luc Bourgain joined the team in charge of the building
of Nausicaá in 1988 as Assistant Aquarist. In 1998, he took charge of the new exhibition
space dedicated to the creation of marine parks and to the preservation of species. He is
the Marine Mammals Head Trainer of California Sea Lions.
Member of the Regional Scientific Council of the Natural Heritage of the Hauts de France
(CSRPN) and member of the Coordination Mammalogique du Nord de la France (CMNF), he
works to the knowledge and preservation of the marine mammals on the French coast of
the Strait of Dover.
GÉRALDINE LACAVE
Dr. Géraldine Lacave has 30 years of experience as a marine mammal veterinary consultant,
overseeing many aquaria and marine parks worldwide and has been in charge of the health
of the sea lions at Nausicaá since 1998.
She graduated from the veterinary faculty of the Liège University in Belgium and has
devoted her carrier to the promotion of medical training in marine mammals working very
closely with trainers in the development of good husbandry procedures for the animals in
human care. She is a member of EAAM, IMATA and IAAAM, is Past President of EAAM, past
Vice-President of IMATA, presented numerous papers during scientific conferences and
regularly offers workshops on marine mammals’ medical subjects.
Evolution of geriatric medicine in zoologic institutions:
An example of the contribution of osteopathy in a case of paralysis in a
California sea lion (Zalophus californianus)
When one of Nausicaá’s California Sea Lions presented symptoms suggestive of lower limb paralysis, various tests (among
which blood analysis, x-ray, ultrasound) were performed. These examinations were unremarkable and no reason for this
sudden paralysis could be identified. The animal eating well and showing no signs of pain, no treatment was installed. It
was decided to attempt helping him through the use of osteopathy.
In 8 months, the sea lion has recovered some of its hind flippers’ mobility capabilities. This presentation describes the joint
work of the various veterinary approaches and the results obtained.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 15EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
GUIGONE CAMUS
• Dr. Guigone Camus, Social Anthropologist, Pacific islands
• Scientific advisor, Ocean & Climat Platform
A brief outline of the Ocean’s global aspects in a time of climate change
Briefly recalling several of the impacts of climate change on the ocean that are highlighted by the IPCC Special Report on
the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate (SROCC), this presentation will emphasize on the major risks to which
human populations are exposed. It will conclude on an outline suggesting that the ocean can be seen as a globalizing and
unifying ecosystem for a Humanity facing its future in a time of climate change.
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 16EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
Professor DAVID JOHNSON
BSc MSc PhD FRGS FCIWEM
David Johnson is a Director of Seascape Consultants Ltd and Emeritus Professor of
Coastal Management at the UK Southampton Solent University and Honorary Professor at
University of Edinburgh.
He is a chartered geographer and chartered scientist and has held a Caird Fellowship at the
UK National Maritime Museum.
He is a global expert working at the interface of marine science and policy and an
experienced and influential advisor on policy and public affairs concerning the future of
global oceans.
He was previously Executive Secretary to the OSPAR Commission (2006-2012) responsible
for refocusing the work of the Commission including production of the Quality Status
Report 2010 and establishing the world’s first network of Marine Protected Areas in Areas
Beyond National Jurisdiction.
Count it, conserve it and make it count
Every time scientists explore the deep-sea, they make new discoveries. At the same time marine biodiversity is being lost
at an unprecedented rate. Science strives for certainty but it seems certain in the meantime we will lose much of what
we didn’t even know we had. Key challenges are the impacts of too many people, climate change and a legacy of poor
management and governance. This is exacerbated by low public awareness of ocean issues and lack of ownership:
rhetoric instead of responsibility.
Answers lie in an evolving legal framework, long-term policies and full-cost accounting. It is important to understand
losses and trade-offs, to exemplify them and communicate them to decision-makers and the public. We need to recognize
the most significant places for marine biodiversity and if possible, restrict impacts on them as well as anticipating future
challenges.
For me the role and responsibility of aquariums is to reflect genetic diversity, to interpret and inspire. I admire efforts to tell
stories, make it personal, and foster citizen science.
THURSDAY OCTOBER 17EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
NADIA OUNAÏS
PhD Oceanology
With a training in biology and a doctorate in oceanology, Nadia OUNAIS has completed
a scientific course that after various experiences in aquaculture, led her first to take the
direction of the Aquarium of Monaco and thereafter to become operational director of the
Oceanographic Institute.
She was in charge of the Aquarium, the educational service, public conferences,
exhibitions and scientific congresses.
Since March 2017, she has been appointed Vice-President of International Affairs at the
Oceanographic Institute. President of the European Union of Aquarium Curators (EUAC) for
9 years, founding member of the International Aquarium Network (IAN), Founding Member
of the World Ocean Network, member of several other international organizations, author
of dozens of scientific publications, and diver confirmed. Appointed Knight in the Order of
Saint-Charles by HSH Prince Rainier III of Monaco for his career in 2011.
Honored by the Trident Gold in 2012 by the International Academy of Underwater Science
and Technology, the highest distinction of the aquatic world.
Of Tunisian origin, she was awarded in 2016 by the Tunisian head of government with the
trophy of Radiant International Tunisian woman.
The World Coral Conservatoire: a Noah’s ark for corals and reef ecosystems
Nadia OUNAIS(1), Didier ZOCCOLA (2)
Climate change causes global decline of coral reefs. Using the network of World Public Aquariums, we propose to build
a “Noah’s Ark” biological repository for corals. Seawater aquaria will serve as a reservoir for the purpose of conservation,
restoration, and research of coral reefs to preserve these magnificent ecosystems that provide invaluable services to
humankind. In addition to the environmental and scientific interest, this project will provide a global dimension to coral reef
education and protection thanks to the involvement of the most prestigious aquariums.
(1) Institut océanographique, Fondation Albert Ier de Monaco
(2) Centre Scientifique de Monaco, 8 Quai Antoine 1er, 98 000, Monaco
THURSDAY OCTOBER 17EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTSEUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTS
Session 1
IUCN Red List in Aquariums Aquariums have an increasing responsibility to contribute to the conservation of the
species they care for. Despite significant advances, threats to marine biodiversity still
Presenting author: Catarina Fonseca surpass conservation efforts and aquariums can play a critical role in the protection
Institute: Oceanário de Lisboa of the species they host.
In 2018, Oceanário de Lisboa joined The Deep in the partnership with the IUCN
Species Survival Commission to collaborate on marine assessments for IUCN’s Red
List of Threatened Species. One of the main outcomes from this partnership was the
creation of the Aquarium Species Assessment project led by Oceanário, that focuses
on the assessment of all Not Evaluated marine species held in aquarium collections.
This talk will focus on results obtained until now and future steps.
The next EAZA campaign The next EAZA campaign has been recently launched in Valencia to increase
“WHICH FISH? “: awareness about the threats to aquatic fauna caused by indiscriminate fishing, with
a joint opportunity for aquaria the aim to promote sustainable behavioural changes in all campaign participants
and zoos to contribute (and their visitors).
The fisheries industry represents in fact a very essential business of profit for
to the sustainability
hundreds of thousands of workers and it is currently in a critical condition due to
of aquatic animals the constant threats and decrease of aquatic species stocks, globally captured for
human and animal consumption. This topic will be addressed by involving the
Presenting author: Claudia Gili
operating units of the snack bars/restaurants and animal operations in zoos &
Co-authors: Florence Huron, Laura Myers,
aquaria, in their visitors and stakeholders.
Teresa Pina, Daniele Rizzelli,
Aside from fish consumption, although in a smaller scale capacity, comes the issue
Anna Mielnikiewicz, Sandrine Camus,
related to the necessity to guarantee a sustainable acquisition program for fish and
Bruna Valettini.
invertebrates displayed and maintained, by also promoting further implementation of
Institute: Acquario di Genova & Stazione
sustainable collections and breeding programs.
Zoologica Anton Dohrn
This campaign will therefore be the opportunity for aquaria and zoos to join forces on
a common mission to contribute to the survival of live oceans.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 15Session 1 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTS
Why the Oceanium in Basel For many years, Basel Zoo was planning to build a new Oceanium close to the city
will not be built centre. This presentation focuses on the reasons that prevented the construction of
a new aquarium.
Presenting author: Fabian Schmidt Despite the fact that the city council supported the construction with 70 % majority,
Co-authors: the Swiss political system allows a democratic voting of the people, which disagreed
Tanja Dietrich, Heidi Rodel & Olivier Pagan with 54,6 %. The reasons for this result are multifactorial including local reasons,
Institute: Zoo Basel dislikes of the design of the building, worries about the traffic situation and the
economic sustainability.
Certainly, the most vocal arguments were from animal right activists regarding
« capturing and imprisoning » wild animals, and about ecological sustainability of a
putative energy consumption, driven by the current time spirit of the societal change
with regard to climate change.
For once, this is not a success story. Therefore, it is important to analyse and learn
from the reasons, as this could not only happen in Basel, but anywhere and therefore
affects all zoos and aquaria.
The power of communication: In March 2018, Oceanário de Lisboa received two sea otters from Alaska Sea Life
Sea Otters arrival Center. In order to avoid public misinterpretation of the goals of having two new
sea-mammals in Oceanário de Lisboa, a communication strategy was planned
Presenting author: Núria Baylina months ahead the estimated date of arrival with a transparency and clarification goal.
Institute: Oceanário de Lisboa This presentation explains the planning, execution and results of this communication
strategy.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 15Session 1 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTS
Sharks and Rays Project: As part of the AZA SAFE: (North American Association of Zoos and Aquaria
an international census of Saving Animals from Extinction) Sharks and rays project, an International Census of
chondrichthyans in human care Chondrichthyans in human care was recently launched.
This cooperative web-based platform aims to integrate and sustain a global
Presenting author: Max Janse census of every chondrichthyan species in human care. The goals of the project
Institute: Burger’s Zoo include promoting communication between institutions and support cooperative
research, conservation of endangered species and collaborative breeding programs.
More than 20 Regional Coordinators have been recruited to assist the participants,
three of them being European RCs.
Regional coordinators:
• Southern Europe: Carlos Taurá ctaura@oceanografic.org
• Northern Europe: Ana Ferreira anaferreira@oceanario.pt
• Central Europe: Max Janse janse@burgerszoo.nl
Public aquaria, research facilities and other organizations participating are establi-
shed as teams, each having their own coordinator that approves or declines users’
permissions to view or edit their data, always being in control of the data they share.
This user-friendly platform was built so data can be introduced manually or imported
from an Excel spreadsheet. Incorporating data from the previous AES International
Elasmobranch Census, this project already contains over 240 species from more
than 160 institutions representing over 35 countries.
http://sharksandraysproject.com
Introduction of the Shark School The 153 years old Budapest Zoo is running the biggest project of its history. The
in Budapest Zoo and Botanical new Pannon Park Project includes a new aquarium facility with larger and smaller
Garden freshwater and marine systems and a 2,5 million litres shark tank.
An idea was born in 2014: a nursery, where the base animal collection could start to
Presenting author: Lilian Csehó grow, give experience and opportunity to the aquarists and the animals to learn from
Institute: each other. It was finally opened in 2018. It became a half industrial exhibition where
Budapest Zoo and Botanical Garden the main aspect was the practicality for easy handling, keeping enough space for the
animals, visitors can see behind the scenes. In the tanks (35m3, 110m3, 700m3) six
shark species, two guitarfish and rays are living together.
Through positive reinforcement training, animal handling is aimed to be as safe as
possible, regular health checks and veterinarian examinations are becoming a daily
routine for the whole team.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 15Session 1 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTS
From the sea to the plate Initiated by the World Ocean Network and launched in 2010, Mr.Goodfish is a
Mr.Goodfish: supporting seafood European programme aiming at raising both public and professional awareness on
industry professionals the need for sustainable seafood consumption.
Mr.Goodfish was initiated by three major aquaria in Europe: Acquario di Genova,
Presenting author: Justine Delettre Aquarium Finisterrae and Nausicaá.
Institute: The programme targets the whole value chain from fishermen, fish farmers and
Nausicaá, Centre National de la Mer retailers to chefs and school canteens, to disseminate the message to an audience
as wide as possible.
Actions and tools target stakeholders of the entire industry: restaurateurs commit
to suggesting a minimum of two species recommended by the programme on their
menus, while fishmongers commit to selling at least five recommended species on
their stalls. Wholesalers, processors, supermarkets are also joining the programme,
as a responsible act which contributes to a sustainable management of resources.
Mr.Goodfish provides training sessions, regular follow-ups through questionnaires
phone calls, newsletters and dedicated communication tools and events.
Everything you always wanted to Microalgae are the backbone of freshwater and marine ecosystems. They thrive in
know about Microalgae our waters for millions of years, originating from the fusion (endosymbiosis) of a
(but were afraid to ask) eukaryotic cell and a photosynthetic bacterium.
Evolution “went crazy” and allowed further fusion events, giving rise to the multitude
Presenting author: Victória del Pino of microalgae species we know nowadays. The most common are now the green
Institute: Necton S.A. (EUAC Consulting algae (which gave origin to land plants), red-algae, diatoms and haptophytes. They
Support Member) are responsible for 45% of global primary production, converting water and inorganic
carbon (CO2) to organic carbon and oxygen through photosynthesis. Several metabo-
lic pathways then convert the organic carbon into proteins, lipids and sugars, giving
to each kind of microalgae its own nutritional profile. Their richness and abundancy
bring microalgae to the base of most aquatic food chains. They are responsible for
feeding, directly or indirectly, most aquatic animals, starting from the smallest ani-
mals in the zooplankton up to the largest fish. And that is why microalgae are the
backbone of freshwater and marine ecosystems.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 15EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTS
Session 2
Using the Five Domains in an Animal welfare is increasingly becoming an important factor with regards to
Aquatic World how the public view aquariums in 2019 and beyond. The Five Domains of animal
welfare (developed by David Mellor) have replaced the Five Freedoms as the hallmark of
Presenting author: Dr Robert Jones animal welfare.
Institute: The Aquarium Vet The Five Domains are:
1. Nutrition
2. Environmental
3. Health
4. Behaviour
5. Mental or Affective State
We will discuss how these Five Freedoms can be applied to an aquatic world.
Are Your Fish Legal? As an active participant in the marine life fishery to public aquariums for more
An Analysis of the Regulatory than 3 decades the complexity of fisheries management, reporting, permitting and
and Permitting for Wild Sourced compliance has increased substantially.
Display Animals out of Florida and 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
the Eastern U.S. fishery management process and being a proactive participant in helping to craft
intelligent conservation regulations to ensure long term sustainability is essential.
Presenting author: Forrest Young Industries hand in developing best practices for legally and properly collecting
Institute: Dynasty Marine Associates, Inc 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.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 15Session 2 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTS
Moskvarium (Moscow) and Aquarism in Russia has a long and interesting history. However, the first modern large
Aquatica (Kogalym, West Siberia), public aquarium in our country appeared only 13 years ago. There are nine aquariums
as an example of large public with a total water volume of about 1000 m3 or more in Russia now. Four of them were
built by Aqua Logo engineering company.
aquariums in Russia
The presentation will detail two of them:
• The centre of oceanography and marine biology “Moskvarium”.
Presenting author: Andrey Telegin
Opened in 2015; 3,200 m3 of water in the Aquarium Department and total
Institute: Aqua Logo engineering
water volume with the Dolphinarium for killer whales – 22,000 m3; number of
(Ocenarium Moskvarium & OCEANIA
animals – 13,035 specimens and number of their species – 730.
Shopping Mall Aquarium)
• Oceanarium “Aquatica” (Sports and Cultural Complex “Galaktika”), Kogalym.
Opened in 2016; 3,800 m3 of total water volume; number of animals –
2,000 specimens and number of their species – 150.
Why am I Here? Approaching its 200-year anniversary with a new strategy the Zoological Society
Species Planning at the of London (ZSL) was offered an opportunity to rethink how we operate and what
Zoological Society of London our function is. With two zoos and hundreds of animal species in residence, the
collection plans have traditionally been the result of subjective opinion based on the
Presenting author: Brian Zimmerman interest of zoo directors and curators with often only marginal thought given to the
Institute: Zoological Society of London role a species should play in our zoos. Starting in 2017 the curator team at ZSL
began challenging traditional practice and wanted greater transparency, thought
and objectivity to species planning at our zoos. The result of this process was the
creation of a database called the “Species Planning Tool” that helps assess and
record detailed rationale for the species we keep and to answer the question: “Why
am I here?” from the animal’s perspective.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 15EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTS
Session 3
The Voronezh Aquarium The Voronezh Aquarium is the third large public aquarium in Russia and the only one
in the Central Chernozem Region. The total area of the Aquarium is for about 4400
Presenting author: Vyacheslav Butsay sqm., the total water volume is 1,5 million litres.
Institute: The Voronezh Aquarium This project is technically complicated as it is carried out in the city remote from the
sea shore and in particular from the ocean.
Nonetheless, more than 200 various fish species are kept in there.
The Voronezh Aquarium has a unique collection of animals including such rare
species as the sand tiger shark, Humboldt penguins, octopus Dofleini, Japanese
spider-crabs, Caribbean green moray and the others.
More than 50 expository objects are displayed to create the nature of the most
diverse nooks and crannies of the Planet to help the public discover the beauty and
diversity of the world.
Back to the source: The collection of ornamental reef fish provides a livelihood for countless communities
Building traceable supply chains across the world. However, the number of fish involved is still largely unknown and
that create positive change. the sustainability of ornamental collection as well as the techniques used is often
open to scrutiny.
Presenting author: Jean-Denis Hibbitt Nonetheless, there is the real opportunity for ornamental collection to have a positive
Institute: SEA LIFE Conservation, impact not only for collectors but also the local fish populations and habitat.
Welfare and Engagement As part of our global supplier accreditation program SEA LIFE has begun identifying
such opportunities, new and existing, not only to support responsible fishers and the
habitat in which they work but also to help build traceable and ethical supply chains
back to our aquariums.
This presentation highlights two SEA LIFE expeditions to fishing communities in both
the Philippines and Indonesia, not only to observe the collection techniques used,
but also to understand the challenges the fishers face and how our support might
improve the welfare of both fish and fishers as well as the local environment.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 15Session 3 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTS
The role of aquariums information Data is essential to help the world respond to the current ocean crises. With the
for Ocean conservation exponential increase of data across different disciplines, there is an opportunity to
connect and create new knowledge under an integrated vision to conserve marine
Presenting author: Sander Kozijn species. We present a framework and a preliminary assessment of the potential of
Institute: aquarium’s information together with other ocean databases, legal frameworks, and
Species360 / Syddansk Universitet biological data to help prioritize fish species conservation actions across the world’s
oceans.
What are the options in zoos and Sustainability is a word that is being used everywhere nowadays. The fact is that
aquaria to increase sustainability? within every work field the sustainability of their operations should increase.
A thorough review on the options Especially within public aquaria and zoos this should be top priority due to their
and the hazards that can set back educational purpose.
We all have various ideas to increase our sustainability with sourcing methods of
the booked progress. marine life, but what more? Solar panels you would think of, but what about for
example; The packing material being used? How to increase sustainability without
Presenting author: Jeffrey de Pauw
compromising local overseas fisheries? Companywide training on how to be more
Institute: De Jong Marinelife B.V.
sustainable, does this have any benefits? Eventually everyone faces difficulties and
problems during the process of becoming a more sustainable institution. Which is
very normal thinking of the high expectations the public has on our institution, but
also the expectations we set for ourselves.
In the end we are all extremely willing to change, but how and at what cost?
TUESDAY OCTOBER 15EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTS
Session 4
Transports then and now: The opening of the Oceanário de Lisboa, where Flying Sharks’ founding staff
a new paradigm in marine originated from, involved the collection and transport of animals from literally every
animals’ collections corner of the planet to Lisbon, which was a monumental exercise in the development
of long-term transport techniques.
Presenting author: João Correia These techniques were then refined over two decades, allowing for the collection and
Institute: Flying Sharks transport of species once considered ‘impossible’, such as Scomber sp., Sarda, Mola
mola, Naucrates ductor, and an assortment of jellyfish, among multiple others.
Such advancements include the replacement of 12 V systems for 220 V, while am-
monia and pH are no longer a concern, thanks to recent developments in quenching
and buffering agents.
Additionally, a new paradigm in marine animal transport is presented, whereas buffering
agents are used preventively and not correctively, while L.S.S. is designed for long-
term maintenance and not just transport conditions. This turned our ‘transport unit’
into a ‘mobile holding station’.
Our lab to control water quality and During the last 3 years, the lab of the aquarium has made pretty big progress. We are
animal health : recent advances now able to control water quality on a regular basis on chemical and microbiological
parameters. We also implemented several tools to have quick answers on animal
Presenting author: Stephanie Orengo health such as haematocrit, blood cells countings and antibiograms.
Institute: Last year, among other cases, we used those tools to study the case of a Stegostoma
Musée océanographique de Monaco fasciatum having troubles. We finally discover a heart disease, pretty rare, that leaded
to its death. We propose to take the opportunity of this presentation to talk about this
case.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 15Session 4 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTS
The sea turtle’s odyssey: In 2019, the oceanographic museum of Monaco launched a new public area
a new exhibit to enhance dedicated to marine turtles. Its aim is to present the beauty of those little-known
awareness and protection animals, as well as the threats they have to face around the world and especially
in the Mediterranean Sea, and the commitment of the Oceanographic Institute to
Presenting author: Olivier Brunel protect them.
Institute: After a short visit in the information area, dedicated to explaining the biological basis
Musée océanographique de Monaco (life cycle, feeding, migration…), people can discover the outdoor rehabilitation tank
which is part of the rescue facilities. The rescue centre itself is not open to the public
but can host up to 5 turtles at a time.
This project finally offers a new exhibit but is much more than a new tank, as it really
translates the involvement of the Museum to protect the marine environment and to
raise people’s awareness on the need to commit with us for our oceans.
The world’s aquariums key role To provide an overview of the potential of aquarium institutions to serve as sharks
to help conserve sharks assurance populations and to fill knowledge gaps, we explored the level of protection
of shark species and trends on exports in the international trade.
Presenting author: Rikke Øgelund Nielsen We compared the coverage of sharks in aquariums together with the following
Institute: University of Southern Denmark conservation schemes: Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of
Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species
of Wild Animals (CMS), Memorandum of Understanding the Conservation for
Migratory Sharks (MoU), United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS),
the Barcelona Convention and the IUCN Red List.
Our results show sixty shark species in aquariums, of which 20% of the species
are crucial for the support of conservation programs. Furthermore, we fund priority
species that are good candidates to be supported by aquariums.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 15EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTS
Session 5
Reality checking climate change Colleagues will be all too aware of the increasingly severe global-scale impacts of
coral threat and conservation climate change on coral reefs with back to back bleaching events and a raft of highly
response interacting stressors. Likewise, the current mitigation policy focus of staying within
a 1.5C global average temperature increase is widely considered essential for the
functional survival of coral reef ecosystems.
Presenting author: Paul Pearce-Kelly
Conservation strategies such as the 50 Reefs Initiative and genetic manipulation are
Authors: Paul Pearce-Kelly(1)
ultimately reliant on a sufficiently viable marine environment for corals to survive and
and Max Janse(2)
repopulate. Given the stakes, it’s imperative that formal coral threat assessments,
Institutes: (1) Zoological Society of London,
including Redlisting, provide robust evaluations for conservation policy to be
(2)
Burgers Zoo
effective. Unfortunately, this is not the case.
This presentation will summarise a current disconnect between threat reality, formal
assessments and conservation policy. It will also summarise response initiatives and
suggest how our aquarium/zoo community can realise its tremendous potential for
ensuring corals have a viable future.
An integrated diagnostic To help address the challenge (to non-taxonomists) of identifying corals to species
approach for coral identification level, aquarium/zoo community and coral taxonomist collaborators have developed
an integrated diagnostic approach for optimising identification confidence.
Presenting author: Paul Pearce-Kelly With an initial focus on Scleractinian corals, our approach combines general
Institute: Zoological Society of London morphology, fine detail soft tissue and skeletal photographs, expert opinion and
genetic analysis.
Authors: Paul Pearce-Kelly(1), Max Janse(2), A pilot study has tested a methodology for creating standardised diagnostic
Alex Pearce-Kelly(1), Nienke Klerks(2), feature photographs for identifying specimens to species level when compared with
Chris Yesson(1), Hannah Jenkins(1), authoritative identification guides and expert opinion. Genetic analysis provides
Ana Rita da Silva(3) and Dalia Conde(4) additional taxonomic insight. A Web-enabled SQL database records specimen
Institutes: (1)Zoological Society of London, information, images, treatments (e.g. genetic analysis) and confidence linked
(2)
Burgers Zoo, (3)University of Southern identifications. In addition to being as human friendly as possible, the standardised
Denmark, (4)Species 360. photography protocol and database are designed to facilitate machine learning for
automated, rapid image analysis.
This presentation will summarise improvement rationale, progress to date and
engagement opportunities across our community.
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 16EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTS
Session 6
New tank of Mediterranean corals In June 2018, a new Mediterranean coral tank was inaugurated at the Oceanográfic
at the Oceanográfic of Valencia aquarium of Valencia. This tank has a volume of 24,000 litres as well as a current
design appropriate to the type of invertebrates that inhabit the Mediterranean Sea,
Presenting author: Mario Roche especially gorgonians.
Institute: AVANQUA- OCEANOGRÁFIC S.L. Different specimens of Paramuricea clavata, Leptoborgia sarmentosa, Eunicella
singularis, as well as the impressive gorgonia Ellisella paraplexauroides can be obser-
ved. In addition to gorgonians, we can also observe other types of invertebrates such as
Dendrophylia ramea, D. cornigera, Corinactis viridis or the threatened Corallium rubrum.
All the invertebrates present in the tank have arrived from different aquariums,
constituting an excellent example of collaboration among them.
Creating Dosing Solutions for Since 2016 we have used a dosing system with minimal water changes to manage
Coral Displays our coral systems.
We started using pre-made products but quickly realised that we wanted to better
Presenting author: Hannah Thomas understand what we were putting in to our tanks.
Institute: Chester Zoo We researched historical levels of elements in seawater, pre-industrialisation, and try
to match our levels to that standard.
We have devised a system for daily adjustment calculations that can be used by
anyone, regardless of their level of knowledge. We have seen significant financial
benefits and the growth of the corals has improved.
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 16Session 6 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTS
Marine biodiversity as You’ve Nearly four billion years ago, life appeared in the ancestral ocean. Since then, over
Never Seen It Before! a billion species have evolved on Earth, most now extinct. Current species diversity
[ABYSS 3D] – [PLANKTON 3D]: is estimated at 10 to 30 million species, of which 1.9 million have thus far been
New 3D Technologies for Science described, including 300 000 marine species. Confronted with an environment that
is changing faster than ever before, marine species are attempting to adapt… In pu-
Outreach blic aquaria, we must raise our public awareness of the fundamental role of marine
species in aquatic ecosystems.
Presenting author:
However, it can be difficult to present some of them in aquaria and other centres for
Anne ROGNANT/ Deputy aquarium Curator
science culture or schools, since the capture of certain species and its manipulation
Institute: OCEANOPOLIS – Brest
under the microscope poses several constraints…
Over twenty 3D models of plankton, from viruses to jellies, and abyssal species were
created based on microscope imaging, and discussions with science educators at
Océanopolis and scientists.
The [ABYSS 3D] and [PLANKTON 3D] programmes propose novel exhibits using
innovative technologies and offers a response to the question: Can new technologies
facilitate learning about an object of science, the understanding of a complex
message, our visitors’ engagement?
Elasmomeeting 2019 A shark husbandry workshop was held by Sosto Zoo this spring. The reasons of the
workshop were the followings: During the last years the EUAC and EAZA encourage
Presenting author: Attila Varga professional education workshops in the aquarium field under the common umbrella of
Institute: Sosto Zoo/ Nyíregyházi Állatpark the two organizations. In connection with this last year the EUAC community also
Nonprofit Kft stated our goal to support and organize five workshops during the following five
years.
In accordance with these ideas the team of Sosto Zoo decided to organize a shark
husbandry workshop. We realized the fact that many new aquariums opened or old
facilities were renewed in the middle and East European region and most of these
institutions keep sharks and rays.Further preliminary idea was to collect the shark
experts from East and West and provide them a three days long forum to discuss
their concerns and also provide time to present their cases.
The lectures were divided into theoretical and practical courses those covered most
of the interesting fields – from husbandry to anatomy – about this taxonomical group.
The workshop was small grouped familiar meeting due to the practical sessions.
From 16 countries in total 50 participants took part on the event. Out of the 6 invited
lecturers four arrived from European countries. Further two came from the United
States.With this successfully workshop we the EUAC community could fulfil the first-
year plan of our ’five-year’ education plan.
The goal of this presentation to give a short overview about the event and with this
encourage you to be the next host!
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 16Session 6 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTS
Redesign of freshwater tank The largest planted freshwater tank in Germany with 28m³ did have the Amazon as
theming with aquascaping a theming. After 12 years the concrete artificial root was week in structure and the
coating vanished; we had to renew that tank interior. By means of a cooperation with
Presenting author: Guido Westoff Dennerle Plants and well known aquascapers, the new theming of a southeast Asian
Institute: Tropen-Aquarium Hagenbeck river was designed.
The planning, challenges and media attention to this project will be presented with
some background information and time lapse films.
Live Fish Handle with Care – Universeum received its female sawfish (Pristis pristis) in 2001, at a length of 1,15
Moving a Pristis meters. A pre-CITES animal and vital for the species within the aquarium world.
At the time of transport, the sawfish measured in at 3,6 meters long. Due to her size
Presenting author: Terese Swartz and and the tank’s construction, we made the decision to capture her with divers in the
Carlos Taurá tank.
Institute: Universeum AB and Oceanográfic After 59 hours journey, the sawfish arrived at the Oceanográfic.
The animal was sedated and moved in a 5-meter-long transport tank. She was weighed,
measured and her blood tested before the release.
Since then, we’ve worked hard in maintaining, a constant feeding schedule, 4-5 times
per week, and by the results we can conclude that the animal is adapting very well to
the new facility.
In conclusion, a great team, good collaboration, experience and planning are the
factors which are needed to move a large sawfish across countries.
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 16Session 6 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTS
The mega-move. Dynasty Marine was contracted to collect and transport a Manta birostris for
How to transport a Manta birostris Nausicaá’s grand re-opening.
Though several attempts at air transportation of this species had been performed in
Presenting author: Frank Young the past, only one was known to be successful. The first step was to gather informa-
Institute: Dynasty Marine Associates, Inc tion from the previous attempts and to use that as building blocks to create a more
efficient and safe way to transport this species in the air. This resulted in custom
transport methods and the design of cutting-edge, large transport containers with
built in life support systems.
This presentation will discuss the process from start to finish and will focus on the
advances in mega-fauna transportation learned for our colleagues to implement in
their transportations of live animals into the future.
Life of a sand tiger shark In October 2016, the Sóstó Zoo’s team transported an adult male sand tiger shark
(Carcharias taurus) from a Warsaw Zoo as part of an animal exchange. By that
Presenting author: Attila Varga time a female of about three years old already lived at Sosto Zoo our goal was to
Institute: Sosto Zoo/ Nyíregyházi Állatpark establish a sand tiger shark breeding pair with this move. Preliminary breeding plan
Nonprofit Kft was set where temperature program was prepared to model natural habitat conditions,
simulating seasonal cycles, in the frame of which weather parameters and food
intake were compered. After a long illness in May 2019, the male sand tiger was lost
due to acute inflammation caused by a rusty old hook migrating around in the body
cavity.
The purpose of our presentation is to summarize the results achieved so far by which
we would like to support the breeding of this popular species under human care
and encourage the inter institutional movement of sharks under the umbrella of the
breeding programs.
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 16EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTS
Session 7
Management of genetic Captive breeding programmes in chondrichthyans are an important tool to
overrepresented animals within manage genetically healthy captive populations and have increased in number over
a captive population. the past decade within the European Elasmobranch TAG. This type of collaborative
A case study describing the use species management of endangered species ensures a controlled exchange of
individuals between aquaria and relies on captive breeding successes, often resulting in
of anticonception within a group
improved husbandry knowledge and a reduction of wild harvests for display
of spotted eagle ray, Aetobatus purposes. However, breeding success may result in genetically overrepresentation of
ocellatus. individuals. This will talk about the breeding success of a group of spotted eagle rays,
Aetobatus ocellatus as an example of overrepresentation and the use of anticonception
Presenting author: Max Janse with Deslorelin to overcome this problem.
Institute: Royal, Burgers’ Zoo
Step by step: Juvenile Ratfish The Spotted ratfish, Hydrolagus colliei, is an attractive but delicate specie displayed in
(Hydrolagus colliei) breeding at a few aquaria in Europe. Though its general biology is well documented, the aquarium
Planet Ocean Montpellier world misses useful information to achieve its husbandry and breeding.
Reporting to the EUAC Ratfish Monitoring program and other aquaria worldwide, only
Presenting author: Nicolas Hirel a few witnessed mating, eggs laying and hatchlings in their institutions. In Europe,
Institute: Planet Ocean Montpellier between 2008 et 2015 less than 10 juveniles were reported in 2 institutions with
survival rates comprised between 1 to 10 days.
In 2018, Planet Ocean Montpellier (POM) observed a larger number of eggs laid,
inducing in 2019 a greater number of hatch and surviving time of 7 months and more.
This presentation will focus on the Spotted ratfish husbandry at POM, success and
fails, including data collected during the first months of rearing its juveniles.
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 16Session 7 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTS
Does Dory eat her relatives? Worldwide, herbivorous fishes in aquaria are fed with fish feed which contains high
amounts of animal proteins. Moreover, if vegetable proteins are used it usually
Presenting author: Sander van Lopik contains non-marine agricultural products, such as corn, soy, wheat and endive.
Institute: Rotterdam Zoo As a consequence, the diet of fishes in aquaria deviates drastically from their relatives
in nature. Unfortunately, the consequence of this diet mismatch for fish health is
practically unknown. Therefore, Rotterdam Zoo is trying to match a more natural diet
for herbivorous fishes in our aquaria by leaving out the fish-proteins and agricultural
products. We are experimenting with our own gelatine food using only marine products.
These adjustments in our fish diet are a step in the right direction to a more natural
diet for herbivorous fishes and furthermore are a good method to avoid the unsure
base of fish-proteins and vegetables in current fish meal and feed.
Husbandry challenges during In March 2018, Oceanário de Lisboa received two young male sea otters from Alaskan
adaptation period of two young Sea Life Center: Odiak, one year old and Kasilof, 8 months old. The animals stayed in
sea otters, Enhydra lutris kenyoni, the quarantine facilities for one month.
at Oceanário de Lisboa During this period a 24/7 surveillance was performed which allowed a continuous
monitoring of their behaviours and interactions. The body temperature was monitored
Presenting author: Hugo Batista using an internal temperature emitter and an external receptor, allowing to understand
Institute: Oceanário de Lisboa if the animals were making the correct temperature regulation according to their daily
cycles.
This presentation describes the challenges encountered in the transport and
adaptation of these two sea otters to Oceanário de Lisboa facilities.
.
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 16EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTS
Session 8
How to get hold of an Arapaima In a big 100 000 l mixed exhibit in our Amazonian house two Arapaima gigas were
for medical treatment living for three years together with other fishes, turtles and a male broad-nosed caiman.
When one of the Arapaima showed signs of buoyancy problems and did not feed
Presenting author: Isabel Koch anymore, we were forced to get him out of the water to give the veterinarian a chance
Institute: to examine and treat him. A very difficult task in this tank. This presentation shows a
Zoologisch-Botanischer Garten Wilhelma. way how to solve the problem by using electric fishing and also describes the results
of the action and the necropsy.
Adaptation to captivity within Amphibians are currently the animal class facing the highest risk of extinction,
ex-situ collections of urodela: notably because of disease outbreaks. Faced with the urgency of the situation,
from behavioural to microbial conservation institutions prioritize ex-situ collections to ensure the persistence of
plasticity. the most endangered species.
Yet, little is known about the effect of captivity on their skin microbiome, an effec-
Presenting author: Marie Bournonville tive barrier against pathogens responsible for chytridiomycosis. We hypothesize that
Institute: captivity could restructure salamander skin microbiome and modify their behaviour,
Laboratory of Fish and Amphibian Ethology thereby weakening their in-situ fitness during reintroduction efforts.
(Liège University) & Aquarium-Museum of Using two European urodela, the alpine newt, Ichthyosaura alpestris, and the palmate
Liège newt, Lissotriton helveticus, we collected adults in the wild and kept them in captivity
for a year, while monitoring the evolution of their behaviour and skin microbiome
monthly.
Our results suggested differences in personalities and evolution of the skin-microbiome
between sexes and species. Taken together, we hope these results will provide general
guidelines for conservation projects for urodeles.
This project received a funding support for in situ conservation projects from the
EUAC.
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 16Session 8 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world
ABSTRACTS
Savings on costs, energy, water and In the life support systems (LSS) of public aquaria, many savings are possible: Energy
noise in the Life Support System savings, cost saving, water savings and noise savings.
In the design of aquaria, all kind of “safeties” have been added to LSS equipment
Presenting author: Aldo van Tongeren choices, securing a minimum of operational conditions. After having started, in many
Institute: ATO Energysaving occasions LSS equipment is adjusted to find the better match.
Although these adaptions may have a positive result on energy use, new operational
conditions can have a significant negative impact on efficiency and effectivity of the
system, resulting in a higher percentage of energy waste, more noise, more mainte-
nance and more backwashes of sand filters.
In this presentation we zoom in on projects in several European public aquaria and
will share remarkable results on savings and noise reduction.
Biology and Ecology of Undulate Classified as endangered by IUCN, and submitted to European fishing regulations
Skate (Raja undulata) population and quotas, Undulate Skate (Raja undulata) may show some local patches of local
in English Channel: first results abundance in English Channel, whereas its general distribution area over Atlantic is
and examples veterinary input still showing a global trend of decrease in population. Assessment of this northern
population is needed and the first step on this work is to study the distribution, fee-
in an elasmobranch population
ding and breeding patterns of the skate in this area, which may be different from the
assessment study previous southern population assessments.
Usual capture and tagging approach were mixed with veterinary care and exam of
Presenting author: Dr Alexis Lécu,
animals, including anaesthesia, blood sampling, semen sampling and ultrasound.
DECZM(ZHM), DVM
Input of veterinarian in this field study could increase the number, precision and value
Institute: Paris Zoo, MNHN
of information collected from one procedure.
This presentation will show how the world of captive aquatic animal care can practi-
cally help field studies and Elasmobranch Conservation actions.
Light trap as a non-invasive Many species of larval fish and invertebrates are phototropic and attracted by a
method for fish and invertebrate source of light in the night.
catching. Light traps represent a valid help for aquaria collections as they can catch early life
stages of common and uncommon fishes and invertebrates, are easily transportable
Presenting author: Matteo Murenu(1), and usable, economically feasible and need a minimum maintenance. Moreover, they
Flavio Gagliardi(2), Ilaria Corrias(2), Angela can sample marine organisms with minimal damage facilitating acclimatization and
Pira(2). subsequent maintenance phases.
Institute: (1) Univ. degli studi di Cagliari, In this study we present our results of a collection campaign in the Mediterranean
(2)
Acquario di Cala Gonone (NU), Sardinia, Sea (gulf of Orosei) for the Cala Gonone Aquarium.
Italy
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