Is “Research” an Objective for Zoos and Aquariums?

Abstract

One of the objectives of zoos and aquariums is "research and study". Recently, zoo staffs seem to regard “research” as a difficult task, perhaps because they have had more opportunities to learn about field research and professional research cases. The essence of "research" is "scientific verbalization" that combines novelty and reliability. If we are aware of this, "research" can be an extension of our daily routine work. For example, when introducing a new breeding hive, the effectiveness of the hive can be objectively evaluated by testing it with multiple pairs and multiple installation environments. Also, when you want to evaluate the effects of lighting on indoor nocturnal animals, you can conduct quantitative behavioral observations while changing only the lighting fixtures, and eliminate the effects of room temperature and spectator effects through statistical analysis. This kind of "scientific verbalization" elevates the daily work into “research results” that can be used to improve personal skills and share them with others. "Research" is a "tool" for fulfilling "objective" such as endanger species conservation and environmental education, and is an essential foundation for zoos and aquariums to fulfill their mission. If research activity such as having a scientific perspective, conducting analytical surveys, and publishing papers become part of our “daily lives,” Japanese zoos and aquariums may be able to compare with the world.