Swimming In direction of Sustainability

When the Association of Zoos and Aquariums launched a revamped framework for Species Survival Plans® in 2023, it introduced with it a significant shift in how and when new SSPs could possibly be proposed. Instead of focusing totally on genetic variety, the brand new framework takes a extra holistic strategy by evaluating 4 key elements: genetics, demographics, house and curiosity, and husbandry. This complete strategy seeks to make sure that chosen species aren’t solely able to attaining sustainability however are additionally supported by establishments with the assets and long-term dedication wanted for his or her care. 

Under the earlier mannequin, Taxon Advisory Groups might suggest new SSPs at any time. Now, nevertheless, new SSP proposals should emerge from current AZA Regional Studbook Programs and be assessed through the TAG’s Regional Collection Plan (RCP) course of. RCPs are detailed strategic planning instruments developed by every TAG that define how species inside their purview needs to be managed throughout AZA-accredited amenities. These plans suggest which species to handle, at what degree, and the way these choices have been made, together with an analysis of house availability throughout member amenities. 

Marine Fishes Taxon Advisory Group 

The Marine Fishes Taxon Advisory Group (MFTAG) was the primary to have species develop into eligible for SSP standing below this new system throughout their 2024 RCP growth.  According to Chris Coco, vice chair of the Marine Fishes TAG, timing and alternative have been key.  

“The updated framework was released and offered to the MFTAG just as TAG leadership had launched its Regional Collection Plan’s capacity and commitment assessment,” mentioned Coco.  

With broad participation throughout establishments and help from AZA employees and the Animal Population Management (APM) Committee, the MFTAG noticed an opportunity to steer whereas additionally studying in actual time.  

“In return for becoming the first TAG to evaluate species as proposed new SSPs, flexibility was provided on final submission to ensure we had ample time to learn framework nuances,” mentioned Coco. 

Paula Carlson, MFTAG chair, added that the 4 packages promoted to SSPs, epaulette sharks, blacktip reef sharks, cownose rays, and southern stingrays, have been sturdy candidates.  

“All [programs] represent species that are very popular in AZA collections, and all are breeding regularly at member facilities,” mentioned Carlson. While some had not beforehand met evaluation standards within the previous framework, Carlson famous, “we were confident that once that opportunity was available these programs would make strong candidates to become SSPs.” 

Species Spotlights: From AZA Regional Studbooks to SSP Programs.  

The transition to SSP standing concerned an in-depth have a look at species already managed by the TAG as an AZA Regional Studbook. Each species introduced its personal issues and alternatives.  

Epaulette Shark 

Aaron Jeskie, epaulette shark studbook keeper, described this system’s growth as “a long journey” from candidate program to studbook to provisional SSP. “Because epaulette sharks are such a hardy species, being able to adapt to many different environments, they are a fairly common shark seen at AZA zoos and aquariums across the country,” mentioned Jeskie. “This makes them such a popular aquarium animal that counting their actual population as well as their genetic lineage was quite an undertaking.”  

He added that “it took almost a year longer than average to assemble the official studbook and work toward SSP status.” Their prolific replica creates administration challenges, but additionally “makes sustainability easier,” aligning them nicely with AZA’s new SSP framework. 

Southern Stingray 

The Southern Stingray SSP coordinator and Studbook Keeper, Alyssa Tillman, noticed sturdy justification for SSP designation.  

“Southern stingrays are easy to breed and widespread in AZA facilities. As a popular display species, they connect the public with marine conservation messaging,” mentioned Tillman. SSP standing permits establishments to raised coordinate breeding, scale back the necessity for wild assortment, and assist to cut back environmental influence. 

Blacktip Reef Shark 

For David Cochran, blacktip reef shark studbook keeper and SSP coordinator, the blacktip reef shark represents untapped potential.  

“I came onboard as studbook keeper in 2024 just as the RCP was being developed. These sharks are ideal for facilities that may not have the habitat for larger species. I’m looking forward to engaging the current and potential stakeholders and pooling the expertise and knowledge around this species so we can manage a robust and sustainable program.” 

Cownose Ray 

Katie Allen, studbook keeper for the cownose ray, defined that this system’s elevation to SSP was a direct response to institutional want. As an AZA regional studbook, data gaps have been very obvious within the inhabitants.  

“Many individuals are wild-caught or have unknown histories [lineage],” mentioned Allen. 

As an SSP, this system will obtain help by way of inhabitants planning, coordinated administration, and shared institutional targets.  

Strategic Vision From TAG Leadership 

Carlson inspired TAGs to remain open-minded and collaborative.  

“Not every species will need the same level of management. We view options like consortiums as equally valuable. Once we looked at the task of identifying new programs from a different perspective, we saw that some non-traditional species can be managed in a more traditional way,” mentioned Carlson.  

She additionally suggested establishments to help their employees who take part in species packages. 

“Facilities should provide collection data, follow breeding and transfer plans, and ensure that program leaders have the time and support to attend meetings and contribute meaningfully to management decisions.” 

Her recommendation for different TAGs contemplating SSP proposals?  

“Be collaborative. Involve your steering committee and advisors. Stay in close communication with your APM Committee liaison and AZA leadership. And don’t be afraid to think outside the box.” 

Impact of the New SSP Framework 

The new SSP framework launched new instruments, together with structured assessments, clear eligibility pointers, and a extra intentional concentrate on sustainability and collaboration. Coco highlighted the advantages. 

“It facilitates more organized breeding, a long-term view of care, and increased animal wellbeing,” mentioned Coco. “It also helped identify species ready for SSP elevation and confirmed others as good fits for Provisional SSP status.” 

Allen echoed this sentiment, noting that the APM Committee has improved communication processes amongst key stakeholders.  

“With cownose rays now designated as an SSP, member institutions can better coordinate breeding, transfers, and conservation goals through a unified, strategic approach,” mentioned Allen. 

Lessons for Other TAGs 

The MFTAG has gathered loads of knowledge throughout this course of.  

“One key lesson to learn and benefit from is the support that AZA’s APM Committee brings to the process,” mentioned Coco. “Collaboration with the AZA’s population biologists will help any TAG’s members more effectively grasp the new concepts, assessment tools, and results interpretation. I urge colleagues to avoid going it alone, simply based on their previous RCP experiences.” 

Jeskie suggested program leaders to concentrate on understanding their group. “Know your stakeholders. Learn their challenges. Keep organized. Your stakeholders are the backbone of a successful program.” 

Tillman emphasised knowledge readiness. “Keep your studbook up to date. Accurate data makes the SSP application process smoother.” 

Cochran added a message of encouragement. “Keep communication open and ask questions. If we can do it, so can you. It was ambitious to go first, but the process worked.” 

A Sustainable Future 

Embedded on this framework is a vital aspect for the long run success of SSP packages: guaranteeing that member establishments aren’t solely keen on, but additionally dedicated to, offering house for SSP-designated species. This member buy-in helps assure that AZA maintains a completely engaged group, united in its duty to help the long-term sustainability of managed populations. 

Carlson emphasised that the brand new framework might shift how member amenities strategy inhabitants administration internally.  

“Historically, aquariums have not relied on SSPs to provide animals. But with more species now managed and supported by breeding and transfer plans, AZA aquariums may begin looking to SSPs first when planning collections,” mentioned Carlson. 

For Cochran, the brand new strategy encourages long-term pondering for member amenities.  

“It will generate necessary, but sometimes uncomfortable, conversations about institutional collection planning. That’s healthy. I hope the MFTAG continues demonstrating what sustainable growth can look like,” mentioned Cohran.  

Carlson concluded with optimism. “I believe that with increased participation from the community and increased support for program leadership, the MFTAG programs will continue to grow and become an excellent resource for collection planning and animal acquisition efforts.” 

By taking the plunge first, the Marine Fishes TAG has helped the AZA group chart a course towards a extra knowledgeable and collaborative SSP framework that may proceed to enhance species administration for years to return. 

Hero Photo: Cownose Ray, Credit © Georgia Aquarium.

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