John G. Shedd Aquarium

In partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the University of Illinois, and collaborating zoos and aquariums, the Shedd Aquarium will conduct comprehensive research and data analysis to improve understanding of the critical role played by beneficial microbes in animal environments. By challenging standard approaches to disinfection and filtration in fish habitats, the project will test a novel approach to evaluate whether certain groups of microbes can improve the fitness of collection animals. The project will benefit all cetaceans in human care by addressing a gap in scientific evidence to inform USDA regulations which mandate intensive disinfection of pool waters. Current collection management goals include water clarity and pathogen mitigation, yet no guidelines exist that acknowledge the critical role played by beneficial microbes in animal environments. A nine-member advisory panel of stakeholders from partner organizations will validate study plans at the start of the project, and will meet again to review results, and advise on analysis.