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2 - Protecting an Underwater Rainforest

Freshwater Science in the Southeastern United States

from Part I - Programs and Initiatives

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  21 December 2018

By
Anna L. George ,
Joshua R. Ennen  and
Bernard R. Kuhajda
Edited by
Allison B. Kaufman ,
Meredith J. Bashaw  and
Terry L. Maple
Allison B. Kaufman
Affiliation:
University of Connecticut
Meredith J. Bashaw
Affiliation:
Franklin and Marshall College, Pennsylvania
Terry L. Maple
Affiliation:
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
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Summary

The southeastern United States is home to the highest diversity of freshwater animals in North America. Unfortunately, their habitats are facing similar conservation challenges as freshwater ecosystems around the world, and these animals are at grave risk of extinction. The Tennessee Aquarium has established a conservation framework of “discover, act, and share” in order to protect the species in our region. Our first goal is to build knowledge of these understudied freshwater communities. By simulating headwater stream communities in artificial streams, we can build understanding of how a changing environment affects the distribution of specific species and the structure of the overall community. At a larger scale, we compare diversity and imperilment levels of fishes, mussels, and crayfishes in different watersheds to prioritize regional conservation efforts. We act on our scientific knowledge by using our expertise in aquatic husbandry to advance best practices for the reintroduction of imperiled animals. Finally, we use our exhibits and work with the media to craft outreach and communication messages that resonate with our audience.
Type
Chapter
Information
Scientific Foundations of Zoos and Aquariums
Their Role in Conservation and Research
 , pp. 64 - 90
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2019

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