How the life support system can affect pinniped eye health: a case study with long-nosed fur seal (Arctocephalus forsteri)

Abstract

Eye health issues have commonly been reported in captive pinnipeds. Excessive exposure to UV light, poor enclosure design features and suboptimal water quality have all been associated with eye pathology in pinnipeds. A long-nosed fur seal Arctocephalus forsteri developed corneal disease shortly after introduction into a new facility. Medical therapies provided some alleviation of symptoms, but long-term sustained improvements in eye health were only achieved after life support system modifications. These modifications centred on lowering the production of disinfection by-products by removing most of the organic matter before applying ozone to the system. The reduction in eye pain following improvements in water quality were also critical for the keepers to be able to train the fur seal to receive eye drops voluntarily.