A hobbyist likely dumped the fish in waters where they didn't belong. The otter nearly was road kill.
By GRACE AGOSTIN
Published September 2, 2004
TAMPA - A pair of fish that were a potential threat to marine life in the Florida Keys will now serve as an educational tool for aquarium enthusiasts.
Two batfish made their first appearance at the Florida Aquarium on Tuesday as divers released them into the exhibit of nearly 2,000 fish.
The Florida Aquarium collected the spade-shaped fish, which are native to the Pacific Ocean, from Key Largo in June after sanctuary officials said they were a threat to food and shelter for Florida Keys species.
"Hobby aquarists purchase these fish that are cute and small, but once they grow too large for their tank, instead of contacting a facility like ours they go release them (in the ocean)," said Casey Coy, dive safety officer at the Florida Aquarium who assisted in the capture.
Volunteer divers used vinyl nets and a transport tub to individually release the batfish into the Florida Aquarium's exhibit, as Coy documented their introduction to the new quarters with an underwater video camera.
"We want to use it as an educational tool to teach people there's a better way to be a hobby aquarist," Coy said.
Karla Jeselson, area supervisor for the Florida Aquarium, predicted the batfish would be reclusive at first, but an hour after they were released they could easily be seen at the aquarium's 11 a.m. show.
"Part of the education here is what we do affects fish," said visitor Bill Wineburgh. "(Releasing fish) negatively impacts normal fish and people should really take care of their habitation."
Also joining the Florida Aquarium is a river otter named Penny. Late last week, the otter was introduced after she spent time in quarantine and was treated for parasites. The otter was found May 7 after her mother and sibling were killed by a car.
Paula Blum, animal programs coordinator, said the 8-month-old otter weighed only 5 pounds when she arrived, but has made a successful recovery and now weighs 14.5 pounds. Penny will remain at the aquarium and be used in a study of otter hormones.
