Aquarium Fisheries - Word on the Shore , Organization-wideAquarium Fisheries - Word on the Shore , Organization-widehttps://www.aquariumfisheries.com/blogs/organization-wideFri, 24 Apr 2026 02:19:03 -0700http://zoho.com/sites/<![CDATA[Robots for Aquariums???]]>https://www.aquariumfisheries.com/blogs/post/robots-for-aquariumsAquarium Fisheries Director Dr. Anderson cheers on the next generation of STEM innovators for ocean conservation at the FIRST Tech Challenge New England Premier Event.]]>

Sustainable aquarium trade—from reef-safe collections in Indonesia to responsible aquaculture in U.S. markets—demands a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach. Today, forward-thinking innovators are tapping into STEM talent to explore how robotics can help elevate the sustainability of both the trade and the hobby.

Consider this:

  • Underwater robots mapping coral reefs and monitoring fish stocks.
  • Aquaculture automation that tests water quality and maintains tank hygiene.
  • Smart aquarium systems with robotic feeders and algae-scrubbing tools.

These aren’t theoretical concepts. Many of these technologies already align with cutting-edge scientific tools improving precision, sustainability, and animal welfare across the global aquarium industry.

The MOAI Robotic Aquarium Cleaner and Camera.  YouTube/MOAI.


Engaging the Next Generation in STEM & Marine Science

Dr. Anderson congratulations some of the winners from the Anderson Division.

This spring, something extraordinary took place in West Springfield, Massachusetts—an event that could redefine how we approach youth innovation in service of ocean sustainability. Held at the iconic Eastern States Exposition (“The Big E”), the FIRST® Tech Challenge New England Premier Event united top-tier student robotics teams from across the region and beyond. While it’s primarily a robotics competition for middle and high school students--for professionals in aquarium fisheries, marine conservation, and STEM education, it signals something more:  A growing pipeline of next-generation talent working on real-world environmental solutions.


We’re proud that Dr. Paul Anderson, Director of Aquarium Fisheries, was honored at the event with a competition division named after him—acknowledging the rising influence of marine science in K–12 STEM ecosystems. Dr. Zoe Courville of Dartmouth College’s Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL) was also recognized, representing the deep ties between local science leadership and student innovation.

These teams robots are working hard to transport seafloor samples to the sub.

Altogether, 56 teams engaged in the competition—split between the Anderson and Courville Divisions.  The theme of this year’s competition was “Into the Deep!” where student-built remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) were tasked with scouring the sea floor for environmental samples and bringing them back to the submarine for analysis.


The Premier Event was co-located with the region’s largest FIRST Robotics Competition and the NE FIRST Expo. This convergence created an immersive, campus-like atmosphere featuring:

  • LEGO League showcases
  • BattleBots exhibitions
  • Sponsor and scholarship booths


    Teams face off for a match.

    Together, these experiences form one of the most robust and inclusive STEM engagement platforms in the country—and it’s just getting started.  The ocean is waiting for the next wave of innovation.  Let's meet it--together.


    'Til next time.

    ]]>    Thu, 08 May 2025 16:35:03 -0400    <![CDATA[Broadening Our Scope]]>https://www.aquariumfisheries.com/blogs/post/broadening-our-scopeBroadening our scope to empower sustainable aquarium fisheries from river to reef.]]>


    Photo courtesy of Absolutely Fish


    Since our inception in 2017, we and our partners have worked diligently to empower sustainable aquarium fisheries that support healthy coral reefs and the livelihoods of people who depend on them, from reef to retail.  Since we extended our invitation to Absolutely Fish to join us in our cause last year, we've become enlightened to the joy that people receive from keeping aquariums teeming with fish, plants, and invertebrates from rivers, lakes, streams, and coral reefs alike!

    Aquarists everywhere have experienced the magic of curating a portal to an underwater world in their living rooms - sanctuaries of vibrant colors and delicate ecosystems.  Aquariums are a source of endless wonder and peace, a daily reminder of the beauty and complexity of the natural world.  Over time, the hobby grows to become a vital part of aquarists' lives, a testament to the wonders that patience, care, and a deep love for nature can create.


    People and families across the nation have discovered the joy of aquarium keeping.  You can find aquariums in 10 million households across the US.  Nine million of those are freshwater aquariums, with saltwater aquariums making up the remaining 1 million (per the American Pet Products Association). 




    Many marine enthusiasts often begin their journey in the freshwater (or, perhaps less commonly, the brackish water) aquarium hobby.  With lower price points for popular aquarium fish and simpler care requirements, freshwater aquariums serve as a more accessible entry point.  This progression offers hobbyists the opportunity to gain foundational experience in aquarium keeping before transitioning to the more complex requirements of marine aquariums.

    Photo courtesy of Absolutely Fish

    Aquarium Fisheries' partner Absolutely Fish brings the education and conservation of freshwater and saltwater fish keeping to the pet care community in meaningful and relevant ways.  Coming onboard as an Absolutely Fish Aquarist means growing into a culture of routine education and training, benefiting from rigorous in-store training courses and visiting presentations from accomplished aquarists who are well-known authors of aquarium books and magazine articles. 


    In turn, Absolutely Fish's Aquarists readily share their knowledge with their customers, in person and online--check out Absolutely Fish's blog for best bets for a freshwater nano tank, care primers for bettas and pea puffers, tips on fish nutrition, the importance of water changes, and more.

    Aquarium Fisheries and Absolutely Fish are embarking on an adventure together to develop and provide programming to educate US aquarium businesses--freshwater and marine, and everything in between!--on best practices in fish care and business management.  Together, we seek to upgrade the standard of care across the US aquarium industry--promoting premium, well-cared for fish that promise to thrive in home aquaria.  In so doing, enlightened businesses are poised to profit from improved aquarium husbandry and business efficiencies, and the high-quality fish that they provide.


    Our name change reflects the broadening of our scope, while our mission remains the same...

    To empower sustainable aquarium fisheries that support healthy aquatic ecosystems and the livelihoods of people who depend on them.


    Thanks for following along with us in our journey and evolution!


    'Til next time.

    ]]>    Tue, 18 Feb 2025 14:01:45 -0500    <![CDATA[A Year in Review for Sustainable Aquarium Fisheries]]>https://www.aquariumfisheries.com/blogs/post/2024-Year-in-ReviewJoin us as we reflect on a year of accomplishments toward empowering sustainable aquarium fisheries.]]>
     Bali fisher Jabo displays the tools of his trade.
    Bali fisher Jabo displays the tools of his trade.

    December often gives us time and space to wind down and reflect on our adventures and accomplishments over the past year. It gives us a unique vantage point to consider the existential question:


    "Did we make an impact in the fulfillment of our mission?"


    The shared goal of Aquarium Fisheries is to empower sustainable aquarium fisheries that support healthy aquatic ecosystems and the livelihoods of people who depend on them across the global value chain. We take three approaches in pursuit of this goal: 1) through Policy, 2) by Upgrading the Value Chain, and 3) by advancing Aquaculture Research and Development.

    On Upgrading the Value Chain
     
    Environmental conservation and management are key pillars of sustainable aquarium fisheries.  Equally important is economic equity--for fishers and traders throughout the value chain.  That is why Aquarium Fisheries guided its Indonesian partners through a Value Chain Analysis of the Indonesian marine aquarium fishery.  Some of the goals of this analysis are to identify roadblocks that prevent some actors from accessing economic equity in the value chain, and to recommend data-driven solutions to empower fishers and traders to provide for their livelihoods, and those of their families.  With our guidance, our partners collected data on these points in the past year, with an analysis and recommendations forthcoming in 2025.


    We're grateful to the Shedd Aquarium in their role as a principal investigator in this effort, for the Institute of Museum and Library Services for making IndoReefFish possible with their sponsorship, and for the broad support of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and marine aquarium fisheries stakeholders throughout the country of Indonesia.

    		 The Campaign's Paul Anderson and Rare's Raymond Jakub work with fishers in Southeast Sulawesi to identify species found at their fishing sites.
    Aquarium Fisheries' Paul Anderson and Rare's Raymond Jakub work with fishers in Southeast Sulawesi to identify species found at their fishing sites.  Photo courtesy of Rare.

    Aquarium Fisheries' Paul Anderson (right) visits with the Absolutely Fish team.     		 At the consumer end of the value chain, this year Aquarium Fisheries welcomed new member Absolutely Fish, an industry-leading aquarium store in New Jersey. Owner Patrick Donston lifts education and conservation as core pillars of the store's mission.  He has delivered over 100 presentations industry-wide, has been named Pet Advocacy Network's Ambassador of the Year (2022), and presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the World Pet Association (2023).  This is what makes Absolutely Fish the perfect partner to develop and provide programming to educate US marine aquarium businesses on best practices in fish care and business management.  Together, we're working to upgrade the standard of care across the US marine aquarium industry--promoting premium, well-cared for fish that promise to thrive in home aquaria.  In so doing, enlightened businesses will be poised to profit from improved aquarium husbandry and business efficiencies, and the high-quality fish that they provide.
    On Aquaculture Research & Development

     The Marine Fish Egg Catalog Project spawned (pun intended!) out of a partnership among Aquarium Fisheries, the New England Aquarium, the California Academy of Sciences, Roger Williams University, and public aquaria and zoos around the world!  Sponsored by the AZA, New England Aquarium, and the Academy; the Catalog has emerged as a valuable resource for aquarists to identify species of eggs spawned on exhibit to prioritize for aquaculture.  This year, the Egg Catalog moved to AZA's website as a free, open-access resource for aquaculturists everywhere.     		 The Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Marine Fish Egg Catalog helps aquarists identify species of eggs spawned on exhibit to prioritize aquaculture efforts.
    The Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Marine Fish Egg Catalog helps aquarists identify species of eggs spawned on exhibit to prioritize aquaculture efforts.

      In recognition of its contributions to developing sustainable practices in the public aquarium and zoo community, Aquarium Fisheries has been honored with induction into the AZA's Marine Fishes Taxon Advisory Group (MFTAG) as a highlighted program this year.  AZA's TAGs examine the sustainability and conservation needs of taxa and develop recommendations for population management and conservation based upon the needs of the species and AZA-accredited institutions.  Aquarium Fisheries is honored to be invited to help the MFTAG achieve this goal on behalf of public aquaria and zoos.
    Give to Aquatic Conservation

    Aquarium Fisheries needs your support to conserve our shared aquatic ecosystems--for the benefit of the aquarium hobby and trade, and for the benefit of fishers and traders and those who depend on them for their livelihoods.  This holiday season, join our Conservation Community and make sustainable aquarium fisheries the gift that you give to the planet by clicking on the button above with your contribution.


    Please Make Your Gift Today. 

    Our Water World Has No Time to Waste.

     
     We wish you a happy and healthy holiday surrounded by the warmth and joy of family and friends. 

    We'll see you next year!

    		 
    ]]>    Thu, 19 Dec 2024 11:16:59 -0500    <![CDATA[Aquarium Fisheries has been inducted into the AZA's Marine Fishes TAG]]>https://www.aquariumfisheries.com/blogs/post/MFTAGThe Association of Zoos and Aquarium's Marine Fishes Taxon Advisory Group has inducted Aquarium Fisheries into its membership as a Highlighted Program.]]>




    In recognition of the growth of Aquarium Fisheries' impact in empowering sustainable aquarium fisheries and aquaculture, the Association of Zoos and Aquarium's Marine Fishes Taxon Advisory Group (MFTAG) has inducted us into its membership as a Highlighted Program.  We are honored to be invited into this consequential organization driving impactful conservation initiatives among public aquaria and zoos.

    MFTAG members sell merchandise to fundraise for scholarships at the AZA National TAG Mart in Columbus, OH.


    AZA's TAGs examine the sustainability and conservation needs of taxa and develop recommendations for population management and conservation based upon the needs of the species and AZA-accredited institutions.


    The MFTAG is comprised of ~144 curatorial leaders from member aquaria and zoos. 

    Over the course of its history, the MFTAG has selected only a few highlighted programs that work in synergy with the TAG to meet shared goals of increasing the sustainability of animal collections as well as the habitats where these animals originate.  Aquarium Fisheries is honored to be among esteemed company.

    On Collections Sustainability

    The MFTAG is keenly interested in programs that increase the sustainability of aquarium collections sourced from the wild through improved fisheries management. 


    Aquarium Fisheries works with fisheries agencies of source locales on policy; highlighting model programs for others to emulate, and offering recommendations to improve fisheries management.  We have conducted such an analysis for stakeholders of the Florida Marine Life fishery, and have launched a project in partnership with the John G. Shedd Aquarium and Indonesian fisheries conservation NGO partners LINI and Rare to advance marine aquarium fisheries management alongside fishers, traders, and fisheries management agencies in Indonesia--the 2nd largest source country of marine aquarium fishes imported into the U.S.  We call this program IndoReefFish. 


    You can learn more about our work on marine aquarium fisheries policy here.

    On Aquaculture Development

    LINI staff offer a tour of their aquaculture and training center to Indonesian fisheries officers. Photo courtesy of LINI.

    The MFTAG also highlights programs that explore sustainable aquaculture.


    Likewise, aquaculture research and development (R&D) is another of Aquarium Fisheries' three pillars of approach.  We conduct R&D to build aquaculture capacity of aquaria and zoos for aquarium fish species vulnerable to fishing pressure in the wild.  We've advanced this MFTAG initiative by developing broodstock management recommendations and prioritizing species for aquaculture R&D in partnership with Mystic Aquarium; and in building the Marine Fish Egg Catalog alongside New England Aquarium, the California Academy of Sciences, Roger Williams University, and numerous AZA member institutions.


    You can learn more about our aquaculture initiatives here.



    Our current projects mentioned here have emerged from Aquarium Fisheries' longstanding membership in AZA's Aquatic Collections Sustainability Committee (ACSC).  As our membership in this committee has produced meaningful initiatives to advance sustainable aquatic collections for public aquaria and zoos; we are equally enthusiastic to engage with the MFTAG by applying our collective expertise and talents to help the MFTAG do the same, in service of our shared goals.


    'Til next time!

    ]]>    Thu, 13 Jun 2024 10:32:15 -0400    <![CDATA[Join our Conservation Community on World Ocean Week]]>https://www.aquariumfisheries.com/blogs/post/WOW-2024Let's take a moment during World Ocean Week to acknowledge what's at stake, why it matters, and how you can help.]]>
    Many of the corals on this reef have bleached. If they don't recover, how long will they last to provide shelter and nesting sites for these fishes? Photo by M. Kieffer (CC).

    The world's coral reefs face unprecedented threats to their existence from relentless heat waves, depleting oxygen saturation, and ocean acidification brought on by global climate change. Simultaneously they're enduring compounded threats from overfishing, coastal pollution, and disease--the latter often emerging from impacts of these other multiple stressors.


    We, as members of a global society, know that we need to take bold, collective action to stem global climate change. It seems like an insurmountable task; and nations around the world are collaborating to address this global risk to our planet...ever so slowly. In the meantime, it's critical to bolster the resilience of coral reef and other aquatic ecosystems to mitigate the ongoing impacts of climate change.


    One important mitigation strategy is to address or ameliorate other threats to coral reef health, like overfishing. While the management of large reef fish species fished for food is often addressed by governments and fisheries agencies around the world...

    Often lost in the equation is the recognition of the vital ecosystem services that fishes collected for the aquarium trade provide for aquatic ecosystem health.

    The Blue green chromis (Chromis viridis), one of the most highly traded species for the global marine aquarium trade, flit around this Acropora coral. They bring fresh, cool seawater to the coral, helping it to withstand ocean warming events. Photo by N. Badiola (CC).






    Aquarium Fisheries empowers sustainable fisheries that healthy aquatic ecosystems, and the livelihoods of people who depend on them across the global value chain.



    IndoReefFish Team Members collaborate with Indonesian fishers to identify marine aquarium-traded fishes on their local reefs.




    Our work begins with conversations that lead to partnerships...finding common ground among aquarium fishers, traders, public aquaria, management agencies, and philanthropic communities to agree that conserving the world's aquatic ecosystems is a top priority.      

    .

    Aquarium Fisheries conducted and published a comparative policy analysis for Florida's marine aquarium fishery. We're using this model to do the same for Indonesia in our IndoReefFish program. Graphic by P. Anderson/Aquarium Fisheries.





    With partnerships forged, we proceed by conducting thorough research to understand the fisheries management landscape, recognizing strengths to serve as examples for others, and identifying recommendations to strengthen existing regulatory frameworks.

    One of the ways that we upgrade the value chain is by educating marine aquarium hobbyists about the ecological value of the fishes in their aquariums. Photo by The Reef Experience.










    We work with our partners to find ways to upgrade the value chain...that means:


    Changing the paradigm under which aquarium fishes are traded from a volume-driven approach to a value-driven approach, where fishers and traders can command premium prices for healthy, well-cared-for fishes.

    Aquarium Fisheries curated the Open Source Marine Fish Egg Catalog, helping public aquaria and zoos identify the species of eggs collected on exhibit to target for aquaculture. Photos by (L) F. Libert and (R) R. Villaverde/Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
    Aquarium Fisheries needs your support to conserve our shared aquatic ecosystems--for the benefit of the aquarium hobby and trade, and for the benefit of fishers and traders and those who depend on healthy aquatic habitats for their livelihoods.

    Make your contribution to The Campaign today during World Ocean Week and join Our Conservation Community by clicking on the link below.
    Give to Aquatic Conservation

    Here's to our shared aquatic habitats and the fishes that call them home.

    ]]>    Sat, 08 Jun 2024 11:31:31 -0400    <![CDATA[A Year in Review for Sustainable Aquarium Fisheries]]>https://www.aquariumfisheries.com/blogs/post/year-in-review-2021Join us and let's celebrate our accomplishments for sustainable aquarium fisheries in 2021 via our Year in Review, and choose us as YOUR cause for #GivingTuesday]]>

    As the world finds its new normal out of the pandemic, bringing renewed interest to the aquarium trade along with unique supply chain challenges impacting fishers' livelihoods and shifting demand for aquarium fishes to other parts of the world, it has never been more important to conserve their populations and the aquatic habitats to which they belong.  Aquarium Fisheries has been steadfast in its resolve to do just that. 

    #GivingTuesday

    To this end, come join us and let's celebrate our accomplishments for sustainable aquarium fisheries via our 2021 Year in Review, below.  Are your passionate about conserving our watery world?  About keeping the aquarium trade sustainable for the education, inspiration, and enjoyment of the next generation of people who will be responsible for our Blue Planet?  Then please, choose Aquarium Fisheries as your chosen cause this year for #GivingTuesday by clicking the button.   


    The Association of Zoos & Aquarium's (AZA) Aquatic Collections Sustainability Committee, comprised of 13 public aquaria & zoos throughout the U.S., is committed to sustainable sourcing of the fishes that they exhibit to inspire millions of visitors to learn and care about aquatic conservation. In April, Aquarium Fisheries co-presented a panel discussion with leaders in the field to the Association to emphasize the importance of this mission for all of its members.
    With increased market demand for domestic coral reef aquarium fisheries, this year the Campaign completed an analysis of the regulatory landscape for this fishery in the State of Florida, the most prolific source in the U.S., and found a comparatively robust regulatory framework. Perhaps not surprisingly, trends in catch data for Florida marine aquarium fishes have remained largely stable or on the incline over time. Photo by Dynasty Marine Associates, LLC.
    This year, Aquarium Fisheries' partners tested the regulation of genes that respond to cyanide in clownfish, providing clues to target specific enzymes for the development of a field test. Photo by C. Miller/Mystic Aquarium.
    This year, Mystic Aquarium volunteers completed a nationwide canvas of marine aquarium businesses, generating a database we can analyze to understand the U.S. trade and how to help them achieve environmental and economic sustainability in their business operations. Photo by N. Smit
    The Marine Science Magnet High School innovated a new educational experience for their kids while they pivoted to a hybrid model in the midst of the pandemic. This past year, the kids took their classroom labs..that is, their very own aquariums...home with them to learn aquarium & aquaculture science.
    In June, Aquarium Fisheries co-presented the 44th Annual Larval Fish Conference along with other leaders in the fields of larval fish biology. This year, we connected aquaculturists with larval fish biologists with the aim to spur synergistic insights to advance both fields.
    This year, the Joint Aquaculture Research Lab published a peer-reviewed research article to help aquaculturists increase aquaculture capacity for the royal gramma, one of the most popular marine aquarium fishes in the U.S. Photo by H. Pratt/Mystic Aquarium.
    #GivingTuesday

    Have we inspired you yet?  Please join us in our Goal to empower sustainable aquarium fisheries that healthy aquatic ecosystems and the livelihoods of people who depend on them across the global value chain.  Click the button on #GivingTuesday.   


    ]]>    Sat, 27 Nov 2021 13:42:26 -0500    <![CDATA[Improving Aquatic Life Supply Chains for Public Aquaria]]>https://www.aquariumfisheries.com/blogs/post/Public-Aquarium-Supply-ChainsThe Association of Zoos & Aquariums has convened to improve the practice of sustainable sourcing of fish on exhibit.]]>
    Photo by Aysenur
    Public aquaria & zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) have long recognized the unique aspects of managing aquatic collections. One important element of this is understanding and managing sustainable acquisition plans for aquatic animals. Where do our fishes and invertebrates come from? Who handles them along the way to their homes in accredited aquaria and zoos? What can aquaria and zoos do to ensure that the operations of collection, handling, transport, and, in some cases, aquaculture, protect their health and welfare along the supply chain?

    As members of AZA, public aquaria and zoos follow rigorous standards and best practices in animal welfare and husbandry, veterinary medicine, and operations, to establish & maintain accreditation by the organization. Standards include the development of an Institutional Collection Plan that considers a species' status in the wild as well as in zoos & aquariums, cooperative population management programs, & the provision of proper habitats and husbandry programs that support optimal health and welfare.
    www.aza.org

    Members displaying aquatic animals produced a Board-approved White Paper and Position Statement on sustainability considerations for developing an aquatic invertebrate & fish collection plan in 2016, offering guidance for accredited institutions in this endeavor. After this milestone accomplishment, members again convened in 2019 to establish the Aquatic Collections Sustainability Committee (ACSC), to help AZA's institutions share information and guide ethical decisions when it comes to the acquisition, care, & longevity of different aquatic species.


    Today, the work of the Committee is advanced by representatives from 13 accredited public aquaria & zoos and a few additional organizations with aligned missions, like Aquarium Fisheries.  A cornerstone of the Committee's work is ethical acquisitions, balancing responsible and sustainable collection, handling, and transport practices with the equal responsibility to help support the livelihoods of fishers that often live in remote coastal areas that are under-resourced. 


    In April of this year, the Committee hosted a panel discussion on the topic, bringing together stakeholders at different stages of the supply chain as well as leaders in the field to discuss the complexities of the supply chain and to learn from those who have developed exemplary models of supply chain sustainability. 

    Take a Deep Dive

    AZA covered this topic in the August issue of their magazine, "Connect."  Click the link to take a deep dive into supply chains for aquatic collections, and what the Aquatic Collections Sustainability Committee is doing to improve them, raising the standard of practice for the field in the process.

    ]]>    Sat, 04 Sep 2021 14:10:38 -0400