Facts vs.:
Fiction
Marine
mammals are fascinating creatures who live in a world quite foreign to most of
us. Much of what we know about them has been derived from the relatively
few representative animals living in marine parks and aquariums around the
world.
Unlike
many terrestrial species that have been displayed, studied and domesticated for
centuries, the in-depth study of living marine mammals really goes
back only a few decades. Recent advances in the science and technology of
water filtration and disinfection; dietary requirements; disease prevention,
diagnosis and treatment; social needs and environmental enrichment have greatly
enhanced our ability to successfully house, breed and study marine mammals as
never before.
Advances
in scuba systems, underwater cameras, sonar, hydrophones, etc. have also allowed
scientists much greater access to animals in the wild. While many very important
field studies of marine mammals are taking place all over the world, scientists
still rely on captive animals for much of their data. Zoological parks
[especially those that are members of professional associations such as the
Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums (AMMPA) and the International
Marine Animal Trainers Association (IMATA) ] have always participated in and supported these
studies.
Unfortunately
there is still a great deal of old, outdated, inaccurate or even distorted information
circulating about marine
mammals. The information presented here will always be based upon the most
accurate and recent data available. In addition, references, bibliographies and links to other sites are provided on a rich variety of
subjects related to these animals. Students, and others who are interested in more
detail, are encouraged to seek out and use these
valuable resources.
