Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration

Our Veterinary Laboratory is equipped for processing samples (e.g. blood samples) from mammals, birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians and is outfitted with a complete blood count (CBC ) machine, chemistry and electrolyte analyzers and a fluorescent microscope all which help to evaluate health status. The animal exam room allows for routine physical examinations of collection and stranded animals as well as clinical procedures and other diagnostics such as ultrasound, endoscopy and digital and conventional radiography. An on-site surgical suite complete with isoflurane anesthesia, pulse oximeter and capnograph monitors, and ventilator permits a full range of surgical procedures.

Other facilities include in-house microbiologic isolation capability and a separate necropsy room. The necropsy table is equipped to handle very large animals, up to several thousand pounds. The suite contains all equipment necessary for collection and preservation of tissue samples, and has enough space to allow access for numerous personnel, students and observers.

The state-of-the art Research Laboratory behind-the-scenes at Mystic Aquarium facilitates an integrative research program in aquatic animal health. The Research Laboratory is well equipped for advanced studies in animal nutrition, immunology, veterinary science and infectious disease. Many techniques are used in the laboratory including flow cytometry, sterile tissue culture, molecular biology such as polymerase chain reaction, high performance liquid chromatography, protein purification, ELISA and techniques in cell biology that test cellular function.  For more information on research projects that are carried out at the Aquarium’s laboratory click on “Current and Past Research Projects.