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Smalltooth
sawfish are critically endangered and the only species of sawfish to be found
in the United States; preserving the species in human care is vital to
conservation
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SeaWorld
Orlando is the second aquarium in the world to have a successful smalltooth
sawfish birth; setting a new standard for expert care and conservation efforts
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“It
is through these opportunities that greater conservation can be achieved”, say representatives
from NOAA on this historic moment
SeaWorld
Orlando proudly announces the birth of three smalltooth sawfish pups, marking a
historic achievement in global conservation for this endangered species as the
only aquarium in the United States showcasing smalltooth sawfish and the second
worldwide to have a successful birth. The newborns include two females and one
male, born on July 11, 2023, and each measured approximately two feet in
length. Following their birth, the pups underwent a comprehensive examination,
and continue to receive regular check-ups to ensure their sustained health and
expected developmental progress. This
milestone underscores SeaWorld’s commitment to preserving biodiversity and
saving species from extinction.
Dr.
Joseph Gaspard, Vice President of Zoological Operations at SeaWorld Orlando
said, “The birth of smalltooth sawfish at SeaWorld Orlando marks a significant
achievement, as we become the second aquarium globally to have this success. This
is an extraordinary success in the realm of sawfish conservation, and it is our
privilege to provide world-class care for this critically endangered species.
The birth of these smalltooth pups allows for a greater understanding of how to
turn the tide on the declining sawfish populations and spread the message of
education to our millions of guests that visit each year.”
"The
birth of smalltooth sawfish in captivity for just the second time, and the
first within the United States, is historic. These young sawfish will provide a
great opportunity for researchers and aquarists to learn more about juvenile
growth and development. But equally important, this will be a chance for the
public to witness and develop an understanding of these majestic creatures. It
is through these opportunities that greater conservation can be achieved",
says Adam Brame, Sawfish Recovery Coordinator for the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Association (NOAA).
Despite
their shark-like appearance, smalltooth sawfish are categorised as rays,
showcasing gills and mouths on their undersides. Named for their saw-like
rostrum, these creatures inhabit tropical seas and estuaries in the Atlantic
Ocean, favouring shallow coastal waters, and occasionally venturing into
freshwater river systems, notably in Florida's coastal areas. Born fully
developed at a length of approximately 2 feet, the characteristic sawfish teeth
are covered by a thick material that dissolves within a few days/weeks. This
adaptation protects both the mother and other siblings while in utero. While
these younglings continue their growth, they’ll receive meticulous care from SeaWorld’s
Aquarium Team at the Aquarium Health Center, remaining behind the scenes as
they grow and develop under world-class supervision.
Smalltooth Sawfish at SeaWorld
Orlando
Two
adult smalltooth sawfish reside at SeaWorld Orlando and have been housed at
SeaWorld parks since the 1980s. These sawfish currently reside in the
700,000-gallon Shark Encounter main habitat and boast the title of the largest
fish in the park. In late May, SeaWorld Orlando’s dedicated aquarist and
veterinary teams discovered through ultrasound that the female sawfish was
pregnant. Recognising the significance of this development, the female sawfish
was relocated to the Aquarium Health Center, an environment where she was able
to be closely monitored through the birth of the pups. SeaWorld Orlando is honoured
to have facilitated the pregnancy and birth in its indoor aquarium, with
generated lighting and pristine saltwater conditions. This showcases the
unwavering dedication of the aquarium team in providing the best care to aquatic
animals, while encouraging marine life conservation and education.
Conservation of Sawfish
Smalltooth
sawfish are critically endangered, being the first marine fish to be protected
by the Endangered Species Act twenty years ago, in 2003, following a significant
decline in population from habitat loss and unintended capture by fishers. This
is the only species of sawfish to be found in United States waters, making the
birth of the three pups even more meaningful. Entities that house sawfish,
including SeaWorld Orlando, have a serious interest in gaining a greater
understanding of all sawfish reproduction to strengthen their impact in helping
the declining population. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) has
created the Sawfish Species Survival Plan to help facilitate the future
reproductive success of these animals.
SeaWorld
is committed to educating and inspiring the next generation of conservationists
through its park experiences. It is also committed to animal conservation
outside its parks through partnerships and the SeaWorld Conservation Fund
that has donated more than $20 million to research conservation projects.
Guests
visiting the park can also play an important role in conservation. A portion of every visit goes directly toward
SeaWorld rescue, rehabilitation, and marine animal conservation efforts. Guests can also donate to the SeaWorld Conservation Fund that supports important
third-party conservation research.
