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, 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 15 EUAC 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 15 EUAC 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 & 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 in October 2020.

TUESDAY OCTOBER 15 EUAC 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 15 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world KEYNOTE SPEAKERS JEAN-LUC BOURGAIN After studying , 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 (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 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 (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 15 EUAC 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 16 EUAC 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 17 EUAC 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 17 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world

ABSTRACTS EUAC 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). to the sustainability The fisheries industry represents in fact a very essential business of profit for 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 15 Session 1 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world ABSTRACTS

Why the Oceanium in Basel For many years, Basel 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 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 15 Session 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) 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 [email protected] • Northern Europe: Ana Ferreira [email protected] • Central Europe: Max Janse [email protected] 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 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 15 Session 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 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 15 EUAC 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 15 Session 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), 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 aquariums in Russia built by Aqua Logo engineering company. 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 (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 15 EUAC 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 shark, Humboldt , 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 15 Session 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 15 EUAC 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 15 Session 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 15 EUAC 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 16 EUAC 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 16 Session 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 16 Session 6 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world ABSTRACTS

Redesign of freshwater tank The largest planted freshwater tank in 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 16 Session 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 16 EUAC 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 of anticonception within a group individuals between aquaria and relies on captive breeding successes, often resulting in 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 16 Session 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 16 EUAC 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 . 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 16 Session 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 in an elasmobranch population population is needed and the first step on this work is to study the distribution, fee- 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 WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 16 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world ABSTRACTS

Session 9

Movement and Transport of At the end of 2017 , decided to close the 53-year-old Manly Mature Grey Nurse sharks SEA LIFE Sanctuary in Sydney Australia. Engineering reports indicated a rebuild was (Carcharias taurus) needed due to structures beyond repair. Home to over 1000 different animals careful planning was required for their relocation. Six of the fish were 25 to 40-year-old Grey Nurse Shark Aka Sand Tiger Shark (GNS, Presenting author: Dr Robert Jones Carcharias taurus), all in excess of 3.5 metres and 200+ kg. The species is no longer Institute: The Aquarium Vet able to be obtained from the wild in accordance with the Australian Department of the Environment Recovery Plan for GNS. The movement of the GNS required the development of systems and equipment that would allow the sharks to remain submerged and supported by water through all transfers and avoid traditional capture stress issues. Through careful planning, many long days and nights, the six aging GNS were moved with zero mortalities.

Kura Kura Project: Brno Zoo started the project in 2004. The key feature is an education and rehabilita- saving sea turtles in Indonesia tion centre located in Nusa Penida island near Bali. The area was chosen because it is not only a hotspot of illegal sea turtle trade but there is also a demand by numerous Presenting author: Petr Sramek local sea turtle centres aiming at tourists that keep animals in often poor conditions. Institute: Brno Zoo The centre was granted permission to operate in 2017 and serves as a multi-purpose hub that alleviates human pressure on sea turtles in several ways. Twelve pools, fully equipped operating theatre, education spaces and accommodation for veterinarians form its key parts. One Indonesian veterinarian is a full-time employee while Euro- pean veterinarians are taking turns there. Almost fifty animals have been successfully treated on-site plus many more in other centres. Educational programs for locals and students raising awareness about sea turtles and marine habitat, in general, are constantly being provided.

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 16 Session 9 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world ABSTRACTS

Citizen Conservation – building Citizen Conservation (CC) is a joint conservation breeding program of institutional and capacities in conservation breeding private breeders, initiated by VdZ (zoo association), DGHT (German Herpetological Society) and Frogs & Friends. The idea: If we want to save a relevant number of Presenting author: Anton Weissenbacher threatened species, we’ll have to quickly expand the amount of available space and Institute: Tiergarten Schönbrunn, Vienna the number of knowledgeable caretakers. At the same time, public misconceptions (founding member of CC-Advisory board) about captive breeding cause either Zoos/Aquaria and private Breeders serious challenges both at a societal and a legislative level. CC therefore is designed from the beginning as either a breeding program and a steady campaign. Taking the example of amphibians as a pilot, CC aims to elaborate the relevant techniques for the program and to prepare the scaling up of the program both geographically and content wise. Especially in the field of freshwater fish, CC offers great potentials to foster urgently needed breeding program capacities.

EAZA Regional Collection Plan: In line with the new EAZA ex situ programme structure, this talk will explore how Towards a One Plan Approach to the EAZA Regional Collection Plan follows the spirit of the One Plan Approach to species conservation species conservation and how through the application of the 5-STEP decision making process in the IUCN Guidelines on the Use of Ex situ Management for Species Presenting author: David Aparici Conservation, Taxon Advisory Groups (TAGs) decide which species are recommended Institute: EAZA to be managed under an EAZA Ex situ Programme (EEP) and what the precise direct, and/or indirect, and/or non-conservation roles of each EEP will be. EEPs are defined as population management activities that are endorsed by EAZA for species that are managed by EAZA members aiming towards (maintaining) healthy populations of healthy animals within EAZA or beyond. For species that are not considered for active management, the TAG will monitor the population trend.

Jellyfish Culture In 2014 since we opened the Aquaviva area in , we have been working with different species of jellyfish. Right now, we show 9 different adult species and Presenting author: Ester Alonso we are working with at least 17 in ephyra. We are current collaborating with several Institute: Loro Parque universities, research programs and scientific council centres, assisting on ecological projects and the biological health of our oceans. The purpose of this presentation is to provide the most up to date information we have regarding the different international jellyfish husbandry exhibited our conclusions about biological cycles, nutrition or technical requirements of these species. We want to share this deep understanding about each aspect of the life cycles of the species we work with.

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 16 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world ABSTRACTS

Session 10

Elasmobranchs in-situ In line with the pronounced increasing focus and investment in marine conservation, conservation projects Oceanário de Lisboa prioritizes funding for projects that address issues such as biodiversity loss, particularly the research and conservation of endangered species. Presenting author: Nuno Vasco Rodrigues The threats currently faced by most elasmobranchs together with their increasingly Institute: Oceanário de Lisboa concerning conservation status, have warranted special attention from Oceanário’s funding strategy. This presentation focuses on some research and conservation projects supported by Oceanário for various species of elasmobranchs, including angel sharks and pelagic sharks, but also eagle and manta rays. Most of these projects include some state-of-the-art scientific tools such as environmental-DNA and BRUVs, as well as some of the latest techniques including photo-identification and citizen science.

Ex situ co-culturing of the sea Coral reef habitats are declining globally, leading some scientists to suggest human urchin, Mespilia globulus and intervention through active coral restoration, particularly utilising sexual recruits, is the coral Acropora millepora of increasing importance. However, survival bottlenecks during early ontogeny, partly enhances early post-settlement due to competition with faster growing algal species, are reducing the effective scale survivorship. A future potential of these efforts. Investigating if micro herbivory can be utilised for ex situ co-culture, we assessed application for in situ reef how varying densities of juvenile sea urchins Mespilia globulus, reared alongside the restoration and sustainable coral Acropora millepora effected survival and growth of coral recruits. livelihood development. Coral survival is significantly influenced by grazing activity (p<0.001) compared to non-grazing control, as was coral size (p<0.001). Increased urchin density did however Presenting author: Dr Jamie Craggs have a negative influence on urchin growth due to limited food availability. Institute: Horniman Museum and Gardens In 2020, preliminary work to apply this multi taxa co-culturing to increase production of sexually diverse coral spat for in situ reef restoration practise will commence at the Palau International Coral Research Centre.

THURSDAY OCTOBER 17 Session 10 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world ABSTRACTS

Development of a breeding In 2019, the breeding of freshwater fish displayed in aquariums is in most cases sector for aquatic organisms: controlled. This is not the case for many marine fish and invertebrates. French aquariums are mobilizing! Public aquariums still rely heavily on collecting from the natural environment. Due to anthropogenic pressure, the degradation of natural ecosystems has become Presenting authors: a threat to the possibility of collecting animals in the medium term. A tightening of Dominique Barthelemy (1), Jean-Philippe international regulations has already been noted. At the same time, the awareness of Catteau (2), Dominique Duché (3), Mathieu the general public is changing, and will contribute to making it increasingly difficult to Coutant (4) collect animals from the natural environment. Institutes: Faced with this situation, the French public aquariums members of the UCA (French (1) Océanopolis, (2)Marineland Antibes, Union of Aquarium Curators) have decided to pool their efforts to develop the (3)Aquarium Tropical de la Porte Dorée – breeding of aquatic organisms within their structures. From the training of aquarists Paris, (4) Aquarium La Rochelle to the sharing of breeding protocols, several actions have been implemented and are already showing positive results.

Copepod mass culture to At the beginning of the 21st century copepod aquaculture is raising. Cultivated enhance ex-situ conservation in copepods have numerous applications especially in research in ecotoxicology and partnership between University in aquaculture. They help to increase the number of ornamental species that can be and public aquarium cultivated, and to improve ex-situ conservation protocols. Nevertheless, the issues attached to the mass production of copepods in a limited Presenting authors: space are numerous too. As a result of a partnership between the University of Lille Sami Souissi / Stéphane Hénard and Nausicaá during the last decade within the framework of the COPEFISH program, Institute: Université de Lille / Nausicaá a new research section was set up in the aquarium, where several species of cope- pods are cultivated. Fish and shrimp larvae produced by the brood stock kept in the aquarium are given these copepods during the critical phase of their development. Recent larval trials, with considered as difficult species such asChromis viridis, have been promising and will open several perspectives.

THURSDAY OCTOBER 17 Session 10 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world ABSTRACTS

Mysis Culture We are working to improve our hatchery knowledge in our biological collections. Due to the variety of phyto/zooplankton in our aquariums we have more successful Presenting author: Ester Alonso breeding results. In Loro Parque we are able to house a stable Mysis culture, which Institute: Loro Parque helps us to enrich our Syngnathidae population and enables us to induce breeding. With a very short, easy protocol we can nurture a real (pure) breed Mysis culture.

Breeding the Thornback Rays In June 2015 a four-year pilot project ‘Sharks and rays back in the North Sea’ (Raya clavata), an overview was launched with the objective to recover the North Sea Ecosystems with healthy of four years of animal populations of sharks and rays. management. One of the aims of the project is to investigate the possibilities of using captive bred Elasmobranch species for reintroducing sharks and rays that are (locally) extirpated in the North Sea. Presenting author: Michaël Laterveer The Dutch World Wide Fund is executing this project for Nature in cooperation with Institute: Royal, Burgers’ Zoo the Blue Linked leading the breeding programme, the Dutch Angler Association, Dutch Shark Society and North Sea Foundation. The pilot programme for reintroduction is divided into three phases. Phase 1: setting up of breeding centre Phase 2: breeding programme Phase 3: pilot release programme The reintroduction of the thornback ray is currently in phase three. The presentation will focus on the life cycle of the Thornback ray and the animal management from hatching the eggs, raising the juveniles, tagging, transport and release of the rays in the North Sea.

Baby shark! do do do do do After months and months of waiting, worrying and hoping, 10 little tope sharks where born at the North Sea Oceanarium in the spring 2019. Presenting author: Kristina Ydesen This happy event gave rise to a whole set of new worries about how we could get Institute: North Sea Oceanarium them to feed, if they should be quarantined, if they would all survive and much more. Following we have become much wiser on tope shark reproduction and look forward to -hopefully- more shark pups in the future.

THURSDAY OCTOBER 17 EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world

POSTERS EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world POSTERS

Franco del Amo A new Citizen of the Ocean initiative to promote good practices toward Blue Society

Authors: Franco del Amo, Francisco (1)(2) Co-authors: Cira, Manuel (3)(2); Cornejo, Alejandra (4)(2); Gaspar, Cécile; Mann-Lang, Judy (6)(2) ; Mastro, Ed (7)(2); Vallette, Philippe, (3)(2); Van den Sande, Paul (2)

Institutes: (1) Aquarium Finisterrae, (2) World Ocean Network, (3) Nausicaá, (4) CeDePesca, (5) Te mana o te moana (6) South African Association for Marine Biological Research, (7) Cabrillio Marine Aquarium

Twenty years on, the World Ocean Network has grown into an active hub that can mobilise up to 450 organisations from across 80 countries on 5 continents, reaching over 300 million visitors every year. Its initiatives have achieved recognition and impact worldwide, raising awareness, inspiring action and spreading advocacy through international cooperation. As the World Ocean Network looks towards the next twenty years, we seek to consolidate its vision of the Blue Society where humankind benefits from the Ocean’s vast potential while actively preserving its environmental integrity. This new initiative aims to gather, document and reward good practices in the sus- tainable use of the Ocean, using the Citizen of the Ocean Community and Passport to disseminate these practices nationally and internationally. These good practices will recognise and highlight the most effective, innovative and creative activities im- plemented across the world to raise awareness, share knowledge and build a Blue Society. EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world POSTERS

Noise impact study on a tropical fish population in the Sea Life of Jesolo (VE), Italy.

Authors: Lucia Di Iorio (1), Cédric Gervaise (1), Sabrina Repetto (2), Flavio Gagliardi (3)

Institutes: (1) Institut CHORUS, (2)Jesolo Sea Life Merlin Attractions Italy Srl, (3) Panaque Srl.

Many fish species are known to produce and hear sounds mainly for communication during reproduction. Therefore, sound plays a key role for single fish and fish populations, and noise from human activities is known to impact fish’s well-being. The aim of the present study was to investigate potential effects of noises produced by a construction site on the fish living in the oceanic tank of the Sea Life in Jesolo (VE). Through the use of hydrophone, we monitored the noise continuously for one month. Noise levels in the low frequency range (< 200Hz), which corresponds to the hearing and communication range of most fishes, had median peak levels of about 110dB. These levels were mainly due to noise from pumps, LSS and lighting systems. The noise levels recorded are known to affect life stages and activities of fishes in the wild. Here we discuss implications of noise reduction in aquaria. EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world POSTERS

Dr Milena Mičić Mapping the Mediterranean Pillow Coral (Cladocora caespitosa) habitats in Medulin Bay, Istria, Croatia

Institute: Aquarium Pula d.o.o., Croatia

The endemic Mediterranean pillow coral (Cladocora caespitosa) is the only coral in the Mediterranean known to construct reef structures. Hot spots of this coral have been recently reported in Medulin bay, North Adriatic, which is a part of NATURA 2000 with high anthropogenic activity (, fishery). In this project, the presence of coral colonies has been investigated performing visual census method from October 2018 to June 2019. In the eastern part of the bay, 96 solitary colonies of C. caespitosa were counted, ranging from 8 to 30 cm. Colonies are dispersed in the infralittoral, on depths from 2 to 8 m. Coral bleaching and scattered dead fragments were detected, probably as a result of climate changes and mechanical damages: marine biodynamics, anchoring, fishing tools. Public awareness about the species was emphasized in Aquarium Pula. A billboard displaying how to prevent deterioration of corals is in the process of setting up on the coast in cooperation with local authorities. EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world POSTERS

Massimo Morpurgo Antibiotic Treatment of Mucodegeneration and Positive Buoyancy in a Chambered Nautilus pom- pilius

Authors: Massimo Morpurgo (1) and Gregory J. Barord (2)

Institutes: (1) Museum of Nature South Tyrol, Via Bottai 1, 39100 Bolzano, Italy. (2) Department of Marine Science, Central Campus Regional Academy, 1800 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50309, USA

The correct diagnosis and treatment of disease in chambered Nautilus pompilius are difficult. The basic morphology and natural behaviours of the species tend to mask the initial onset of a disease or infection, and by the time it is observable, mortality usually occurs. A single specimen of chambered nautilus at the Museum of Nature South Tyrol, Italy, exhibited symptoms of an infection, including mucus production, abnormal buoyancy, irregular hood appearance, and inconsistent tentacle movement. Soon after, tetracycline hydrochloride was administered in bath form at 25 mg/L in seawater daily for 30 min over six consecutive days. The specimen regained normal buoyancy after the fifth day. After the 6-d treatment, the specimen regained all normal behaviours and appearance within 2 weeks. More than 1 year after treatment, the specimen was exhibiting normal behaviours with no adverse reactions. When administered soon after symptoms of an infection were observed, tetracycline was effective at halting the progression of symptoms and led to the full recovery of the chambered nautilus. EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world POSTERS

Anton Weissenbacher Project Batagur baska: first steps toward a sustainable reintroduction

Institute: Tiergarten Schönbrunn (Vienna Zoo)

The long-term in situ breeding Project for the critically endangered Northern River Terrapin (Batagur baska) in Bangladesh takes the next conservation steps and searches for reintroduction habitats in the west Sundarbans. In 2018 we released five males with satellite transmitters in the brackish river system and tracked their movements. First results demonstrated differing up- and downstream migration routes from the release site and that fishery poses a great threat for reintroduction. Two males were found dead in fishnets, two males were recovered from markets or fishermen and one signal was lost in India. Observations showed that the recovered males slightly gained weight and were able to find food. Nevertheless, due to the precarious situation of the natural habitat a sustainable reintroduction of terrapins remains unsecure. To determine constructive future implementation for the species in the wild a second release trial is scheduled in October 2019. EUAC CONFERENCE 2019 Aquariums in a changing world POSTERS

Anton Weissenbacher First breeding success of Capros aper at Vienna zoo

Institute: Tiergarten Schönbrunn (Vienna Zoo)

Capros aper, a member of the Order Caproiformes and the only member of the Genus Capros occurs in deeper part of the North Atlantic and the Mediterranean. It can be seen regular in public aquariums as typical fauna element of its distribution area. There is only little information about reproduction of this species. The few breeding attempts of Capros aper were not successful. Only one specimen could be reared to adult stadium at a lab in the USA. When we saw spawning activities in our C. aper group we sampled the floating eggs with a net and transferred them to kreisel tanks. We start to feed the larvae with pelagic copepods. The survival rate in the first two weeks was really good. It was unexpected for us that many larvae died in a later stage. At least 5 of the hatchlings reached sexual maturity. There is still much effort necessary for the successful breeding of C. aper but some important steps are done. OFFICIAL PARTNERS EXHIBITORS