My Transformative Experience As A Biologist For A Day at Odysseo: Aquarium Mauritius
Join me and embark on an underwater journey as I share my immersive experience as a marine biologist for a day at Odysseo: Aquarium Mauritius.
In this article, I’m recapping a once-in-a-lifetime experience where I worked alongside certified marine biologists and aquarists while diving into the depths of marine research, revealing the challenges, encounters, and awe-inspiring moments that come with a day in the life of a marine biologist.
My Introduction to A Day As A Biologist at Odysesso
Friday, October 6th started as a cloudy morning here in the center of Mauritius island but I woke up with much anticipation as I thought of the day’s adventures that awaited.
As I walked into the crowded Metro Express Light Rail train, I was quickly reminded of my commuter days in NYC and Washington, D.C. while deeply appreciating my current remote work lifestyle.
My arrival in Port Louis, also known as the capital of Mauritius, was filled with bustling workers and busy city vibes as people started their workday.
This time, my trip to Odysseo was met with less visitors as it stood in the foreground of the still Indian Ocean at 8:30 am before opening.
My day at the oceanarium was met with friendly Educator, Stesie, who works on the education team at Odyesso. Upon meeting Stesie, she welcomed me to the team for the day and briefed me on the daily responsibilities.
Sierra M./Expat Sierra
Food Prep & Feedings at the Aquarium
Working alongside the certified marine biologists and aquarists at Odysseo opened the doors to a world I had only dreamt of exploring. The knowledge and expertise possessed by these passionate scientists quickly became evident as they shared their insights and guided me through the intricacies of marine life and education.
My first hands-on experience came with learning about the different fish at the aquarium while preparing their feedings. I went into the situation thinking that the fish would receive flakes or pellets for consumption but I was quickly met by a more dedicated and intricate demonstration.
Sierra M./Expat SIerra
The education team informed me that each tank had different-sized fish and that they were all expected to be given fresh seafood just like in the wild. However, at the aquarium, the seafood would need to be cut or minced to an appropriate size for the fish to eat, infused with vitamins, and sometimes antibiotics.
There were many tanks throughout the aquarium, so this was an important task that took a lot of precision, time consciousness, and dedication.
Sierra M./Expat Sierra
Perhaps the most interesting feeding was preparing microscopic shrimp in a manner that was appropriate for the sea horses, jellyfish, and pipefish. Moreover, these marine creatures were all at different life stages and thus needed to consume the microscopic shrimp accordingly as cross contamination could be fatal.
Collectively, the feeding process was a team effort that involved a lot of preparation and distribution efforts and I was happy to work alongside the team to get the job done.
Sierra M./Expat Sierra
The Aquarium and Water Quality Control
The marine biologists and aquarists at Odysseo: Aquarium Mauritius demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to the well-being of the marine ecosystem. Observing their meticulous attention to detail in monitoring water quality, maintaining ideal living conditions for marine life, and conducting experiments to further our understanding of the underwater world was truly inspiring. Their expertise and ability to handle various situations with composure and care were evident in every step they took.
During this part of the experience, I learned about the importance of water quality regarding the tanks at the aquarium.
Mauritius island is home to a variety of exotic sea creatures and coral that must be kept at certain temperatures and parameters to survive.
At the aquarium, the aquarists and marine biologists showed me a checklist of the common parameters that we would need to review for each tank. Admittedly, I was a little intimidated at first because math is not my strong suit. However, my tasks only required a thermometer, some estimation, and a bit of leg work.
Overall, I learned that water quality was an essential and critical step in ensuring the health and safety of the marine life at the aquarium.
Moreover, the opportunity to shadow the professionals at Odysseo as they conducted their research and cared for the aquatic life was an eye-opening experience. I quickly realized the immense amount of knowledge and skill required to navigate the complexities of marine biology.
Sierra M./Expat Sierra
Conservation Efforts At Odyesseo
As I delved deeper into the world of marine research, I also became aware of the numerous challenges faced by biologists in their quest for knowledge. From the increasing threats of climate change and pollution to the depletion of fish populations and habitat destruction, the obstacles faced by these scientists seems daunting. However, their unwavering determination to protect and restore our oceans filled me with hope and a renewed sense of responsibility.
The biologists at Odysseo: Aquarium Mauritius shared their experiences, highlighting the successful conservation projects and inspiring initiatives. They showed me that even as individuals, we have the power to contribute to the preservation of our oceans.
Sierra M./Expat Sierra
Odysseo is home to some essential conservation programs in Mauritius.
Expédition Plastique Océan Indien, also known as the Exploi Project, is about combatting the yearly 8 millions tons of plastic that enter the Indian Ocean. This initiative is research-based and aimed towards the public and environmentalists.
The Endangered Sea Turtles conservation program is about bringing awareness, through various educational resources, regarding the importance of these endangered and prehistoric reptiles.
Odysseo is also very committed to the race to save the coral reefs. As a result, the conservation team collaborates with local establishments to provide their expertise on restoring the coral in the Indian Ocean with attention to the best preservation practices.
Sierra M./Expat Sierra
Conclusion
As my transformation into a marine biologist for a day drew to a close, the awe-inspiring moments I experienced beneath the waves of the aquarium stayed with me.
Diving into the depths of marine education at Odysseo was a transformative experience that awakened a deep appreciation for the wonders of the underwater world and the crucial role biologists play in its conservation.
They fueled my determination to be a steward of the ocean, to educate others about its importance, and to actively participate in conservation initiatives. The journey is far from over, but with each step, I am reminded of the incredible beauty and fragility that lies beneath the surface of our oceans, waiting to be explored and protected.
If you too, are curious about what life is like as a biologist and wish to explore the captivating mysteries of the Indian Ocean, then join the exciting One Day As A Biologist experience at Odysseo: Aquarium Mauritius.
Let them know that Sierra sent you! 🙂
