Experts from Russia and other countries discussed modern approaches to the care of marine animals
On February 28 through March 1, the “Moskvarium” Center of Oceanography and Marine Biology hosted the VI International Scientific and Practical Conference “Ocean in the City”. The event brought together specialists in marine biology, veterinary medicine, ichthyology, zoo phycology, water treatment, and rehabilitation of wild animals. The purpose of the conference was to exchange experiences and research results, as well as to improve standards for the maintenance of aquatic organisms.
The conference participants included representatives of the leading scientific institutions of Russia and specialists from EARAZA oceanariums, zoos, and other zoological organizations, as well as international experts involved in the study of aquatic biological resources.
A wide range of topics were discussed during the two days of the conference, including veterinary medicine of aquatic and semiaquatic animals, freshwater and marine aquariumistic, management, husbandry, welfare and training of animals in artificial environment, and modern approaches to education in oceanariums.
“This is the sixth time that we have been holding "Ocean in the City" Conference, bringing together specialists from various fields on one platform. The main idea that runs through all the reports and discussions like a red thread is the teamwork and interaction. We are trying to demonstrate that it is the teamwork based on the close dialogue between veterinarians and the animal care specialists, that can ensure the highest welfare of animals. This logic extends to the entire industry: only by joining effort can we achieve truly significant results,” said Irina Meintsner, Deputy General Director of the Moskvarium.
In the course of the conference, participants repeatedly emphasized that the data obtained by oceanariums and the practices developed are applicable far beyond the conditions of artificial environment and the gained experience can be extrapolated outward for the conservation of wildlife. The practical work of specialists directly helps preserve the wild counterparts of oceanarium inhabitants and natural habitats of endangered species.
The head of the marine mammal service Anton Brykov highly appreciated the relevance and comprehensive program of the conference. "Such exchange of experience and knowledge will contribute to the improvement of animal care in oceanariums and zoos and creation of better conditions for active and comfortable longevity of marine animals," Brykov noted.
Veterinary medicine of aquatic animals was one of the key sessions of the first day of the conference. Specialists from Moskvarium, Primorsky Oceanarium and Kaliningrad Zoo gave presentations focused on the work with various animal species. Conference participants discussed modern diagnostic methods, specifics of formulating animal diets, and application of scientific and practical knowledge accumulated through direct work with aquatic organisms. “It was important for us to create a space for sharing real practical experience. We discussed not just exchange of experience, but also the ways to build strong connections within teams of organizations, i.e. between veterinarians, biologists, trainers, and animal keepers. And there were no boring reports: colleagues shared information about real clinical cases, successes in animal breeding, and practical findings that can be applied in the work," noted Irina Suvorova, head of the Moskvarium veterinary service. She also noted that due to the strong foundation laid at the conference, joint reports from representatives of various organizations can be expected as early as next year.
Special attention was paid to various aspects of biodiversity conservation and rehabilitation of animals of rare species. Experts discussed plans of actions in cases of discovering an injured animal listed in the Red Book, shared experience in the implementation of conservation projects, and considered difficult practical cases that specialists encountered in their work
“Every year, Rosprirodnadzor (Federal Service for Supervision of Natural Resources) receives reports about hundreds of injured and confiscated wild animals. Over 100 animals of endangered species are removed from the wild annually under issued permits. After treatment, most of the animals are returned to the wild, while about 20% remain in artificial environment because of injuries,"said Yulia Gorodilova, head of the Department for Supervision of Protected Areas and Wildlife at the Rosprirodnadzor.
Summing up the discussion, Yulia Gorodilova noted that despite the development of some mechanisms, a number of issues related to animal rehabilitation remain, which are not yet clearly regulated and need to be further legislated.
The participants of the event have agreed that this conference, as a regular platform for sharing experience and practical knowledge, helps strengthen professional ties between Russian and international specialists and provides impetus for the implementation of best practices in everyday work with aquatic animals.
