Saving Seahorses
Channel: VLMuseum
Date: 17/11/2023

On the lower floor of the Museum, our veterinary staff, curators, and volunteers work tirelessly to save lined seahorses (Hippocampus erectus) as part of the Species Survival Plan (SSP).  On a recent Friday, the focus was on a male with a prolapsed brood pouch, named Gerlad.
Dr. Frerichs, DVM, and Licensed Vet tech Lauren Passaro carefully executed a delicate procedure. A bucket filled with tank water and a precise amount of anesthetic powder created the operating room. Aquarium Curator Stacey Murray-Rester explained, “Just like a human surgery, he gets anesthesia to make him comfortable while we work.” A second bucket served as Gerald’s recovery room.
Families visiting that day witnessed the entire procedure from the window in the Conservation Command Center, gaining insight into the vital conservation work that we do. On any regular day, visitors can observe lined seahorses in their tanks, learn about their ecological significance, and connect with these critically endangered creatures.
This particular day became extraordinary for young visitors who got to witness wildlife veterinary care in action. After the procedure, Dr. Frerichs exited the seahorse space into the CCC and talked with the kids and adults about what they had just seen.

#VirginiaLivingMuseum #VLMConservation #SaveOurSeahorses