Grant: 25-025C
Project Title: Microbiological Incubator and Ventilator Care for Sea Turtle Rehabilitation at The Florida Aquarium
Project Manager: Ashley Riese
Organization: The Florida Aquarium (Non-Profit Organization)
Grant Amount: $11,797.00
Completion Date: 2026-03-27
Summary: The Florida Aquarium will purchase a microbiological incubator and ventilator to enhance the rehabilitation of sea turtles at its center. These tools will improve diagnostic accuracy, infection prevention, and respiratory care for turtles facing threats like habitat loss and pollution. By providing specialized care, the aquarium aims to increase the survival and successful release of injured or ill turtles back into the wild.
Results: During the project the Florida Aquarium purchased, received, and installed the microbiological incubator, respiratory ventilator, and associated supplies. Developed standard operating procedures and completed staff training for proper equipment use and maintenance. Installed the incubator for in-house microbial culturing to support faster, more accurate diagnosis of infections in rehabilitating sea turtles. Integrated the respiratory ventilator into clinical care for turtles requiring respiratory support due to trauma, cold-stunning, anesthesia, or compromised lung function. Published a project announcement acknowledging Sea Turtle Grants Program support.