Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue comes in line with the UAE’s declaration of 2023 as the Year of Sustainability.
Marine life is getting another chance at life thanks to rehabilitation programmes by Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD).
Abu Dhabi is now stepping up conservation efforts with the opening of the region’s first marine research and rescue centre, Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue. The opening comes in line with UAE’s declaration of 2023 as the Year of Sustainability.
Located on Yas Island, Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue was launched today. Aptly titled, the 8602-square-metres centre will be a key contributor to marine-life conservation in the region.
Rescue and rehabilitation amenities
Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue aims to rescue sick, injured and orphaned marine animals in the Arabian Gulf and provide life-saving rehabilitation with the goal of returning healthy animals back to their natural habitats.
To facilitate its goal, the centre has a fleet of rescue vehicles that includes two custom-made rescue boats and a state-of-the art veterinary hospital for animals in critical condition. The centre also has over 25 rescue pools two of which are equipped with lifting floors making access to treatment easier and less disruptive for animals.
An onsite lab at the centre, equipped with advanced rescue and rehabilitation abilities, allows in-house pathology analysis for wildlife.
Research efforts and labs
Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue also focuses on applied research studies for marine ecosystem restoration with an emphasis on critical habitats of Arabian Gulf waters such as seagrass, mangroves, etc.
For such research, three dry laboratories, a wet laboratory and a 345-square-meters aquaculture facility includes live feed culture rooms, brood stock pools and larvae culture pools is available on-site. The centre’s 12.5m research vessel decked with the latest field equipment will also aid investigations.
Raising awareness
Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue aims to improve public knowledge and commitment to the conservation of marine wildlife, habitats, and ecosystems. As part of its commitment to inspire the next generation of marine biologists, the centre’s Education department brings together a team of marine scientists and marine animal rescue experts.
Apart from experts, the centre also has a dry and a wet classroom, fully equipped for scientific experimental activities. A high-tech auditorium with a capacity of 160 people is available on site as well.
To raise awareness of marine life conservation, the centre plans to conduct workshops and lectures – on-site and in schools – offering learning and training opportunities to students and teachers.
Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue is the newest SeaWorld Research and Rescue centre, and the first outside of the US. The centre’s inauguration makes it part of a global network and leverages the experience and knowledge gained from SeaWorld’s nearly 60 years of marine animal care, rescue, rehabilitation and conservation to the region.
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Image source Miral and Canva
