G.O.T. dive today (New England Aquarium)

[pennypue]

Well I certainly understand your concern. But I think there are a lot more things to consider. First, the Newport Aquarium divers are there to do cleaning and maintenance as well as doing some demonstrations and presentations. I don't pretend to know all about it, but as I learn more I can let you know.

I thought you might be interested in this article about volunteering at the aquarium here. The divers are DEFINITELY NOT in the water to harass the marine life and are a vital part to maintaining their health. But I do understand your concerns. If I were you, I would check out your local aquarium and see check that what they are doing is humane or would that be 'marine'??? :fish:

 

[pennypue]

whoops, managed to leave the link off!!!
http://www.2dive4.com/dtw.html

 

[MSilvia]

Ok, what i'm about to say i'll probably will get bashed by some..but, that's fine.

So long as you take it with a grain of salt, and the good humor with which it's intended.

...that's why i love diving cause you go into the ocean and see these animals in their natural habitat...

and then take them home and cook them.

Out in Cape Ann 2 dives 9 keepers, 1 a 3 1/2lbs.

 

[matt_unique]

I know they removed the sand tiger sharks for a little while because of something in the tank (a bacteria maybe?) that didn't agree with them. I imagine they must have been returned, and assume that when you say tiger sharks, these are what you're referring to. Is that the case, or have they really put two tiger sharks in the GOT?

You're right, they were Sand Tiger Sharks.

--Matt

 

[PK]

They have Sand Tiger Sharks. No Tiger Sharks in the New England Aquarium.

By the way, the fish are pampered beyond belief at the New England Aquarium. Care for the animals and exhibits with natural environments are two of the things the NEAq is often known for amongst other Aquarists around the world. The fish have plenty of space for their natural needs. The bigger fish do not eat the smaller because they are well fed by plenty of their favorite foods. We also make sure they get a variety of food so they end up with much healthier diets than they would in nature.

Also, the fish are sometimes collected in areas where they would otherwise die if we didn't collect them. An example is in Long Island where a lot of Tropical fish eggs and jouveniles get caught up in the gulf stream and would not make it past the winter time. Collecting them saved their lives. And then their lives are quite pampered afterwards.

The species chosen for the NEAq have a lot to do with their known ability to adapt in an aquarium environment comfortably. Not every single species is represented for this reason. Some animals do need to be free and so they are not collected.

Also, stress shortens the lifespan of fish. Fish often die of stress. Stress affects their immune system. We would not have fish living 20-30 years if they were stressed out.

Animal welfare is very good point to bring up. It's always important. However, my conclusion is that an aquarium, like the NEAq, is an awesome place for certain species. My only concern is about other aquariums who may not treat their animals as well.

 

[MSilvia]

You're right, they were Sand Tiger Sharks.

Shure would have been exciting if they were tigers though! :11: