Abstract

Moving a fish from a multispecies exhibit for husbandry reasons is potentially stressful to other fish and can result in physical harm to the target animal. Historically the practise involved divers entering the exhibit with barrier and hand nets to attempt to catch the target animal. SAAMBR animal care staff have developed a darting method which significantly improves odds during this type of procedure. Furthermore, it requires less staff to manage the process which further reduces stress on animals and people. We have successfully used the method on a variety of species in four different habitats. The method involves the use of a spear gun that has been modified to fire a syringe dart which is used to administer required drugs to the fish in the aquarium. Tranquilisers have been used with success.

This poster will outline specifics of the process and present detail and pictures of the equipment used. Special note will be made of teleost sensitivities, drug use for tranquilising, and reversing sedation, behavioural observations during the process as well as generalities found during these capture procedures. Aquarists, technicians, and health care specialists have worked together to maximise animal welfare during these procedures. Lessons learned will be shared.

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Matt Myhill, Dr. Francois Lampen, Marle Bernade, Cornelius Koekemoer.