ABOUT ARCOF
Who We Are
The Amazon Research Center for Ornamental Fishes (ARCOF) is the only research center focused on the conservation of ornamental fish in Peru. ARCOF is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization established in the United States and governed by a board of directors. In Peru ARCOF is recognized as a non-profit tax-exempt scientific institution by the National Superintendence of Customs and Tax Administration (SUNAT) also governed by a board of directors.
At the core of our mission is the research and support of sustainable ornamental fish aquaculture utilizing sound conservation practices with improved economic development for the local fisherman. We are well established and are registered with CONCYTEC, the governing body responsible for directing, promoting, and coordinating actions in the fields of science,
technology, and research as well as having official standing with Peruvian Customs as an authorized receiving center for confiscated aquatic animals.
Realizing the need for enhanced educational offerings and improved collaboration between scientists and the local community, we embarked on a critical initiative in October 2019 to develop the first public aquarium in the Peruvian Amazon. The Aquarium of the Amazon opened in January 2024 and serves as an environmental education center for the school systems in the Iquitos area, visitors, and tourists alike. Through education we hope to help create an eco-friendly philosophy within the peoples of the Peruvian Amazon.
Our Mission
ARCOF’s mission is twofold: (1) provide education and support research that will facilitate
the development of sustainable ornamental fish aquaculture in the Peruvian Amazon
resulting in sound conservation practices and improved economic capacity for the local
fisherman; and (2) provide conservation education to the children of Iquitos and the
surrounding villages.
At ARCOF, our educational initiatives are tailored to two vital groups: local fishermen and school children.
Empowering Local Fishermen:
Our hands-on educational programs offer sustainable development models that empower local fishermen to adopt practices that mitigate overfishing. By introducing affordable aquaculture techniques, we help fishermen establish year-round income streams, significantly reducing the need to harvest fish directly from the rivers.
Inspiring School Children:
Through our beloved aquarium mascot, Nalda, we engage school children in learning about conservation and the pressing threats facing the rainforest. Nalda guides them in understanding how they can play an active role in protecting and preserving their natural environment.
ARCOF Commitment
Our mission and goals define the core philosophy of our research center and guide the types of research and projects we undertake. As a non-profit, non-commercial organization, ARCOF is dedicated to conservation and education and will not engage in raising or exporting fish for the domestic or international ornamental fish trade.
Meet Our Team
Board Of Directors
RENEE L. MAZEROLL
RN, MSN, CFACCA, Secretary/Treasurer (US)
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Carmen Ferrell
MSN, RN, CCRN, Board Member (US)
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CLAY A. FARELL
COO, MBA, FACHE, Board Member (US)
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Luis Felipe Huertas del Pino
LLB, Lima Bar, LLM, Board Member (Peru)
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CHRISTINE A. KRUEGER
M.A. Ed, Board Member (US)
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Tim Haywood
Board Member (UK)
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TERESSA L. POLINSKI
RN, MSN, CEN, TCRN, Board Member (US)
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Thomas B. Waltzek
DVM PhD
Associate Professor
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Equal Opportunity Employer
ARCOF is an equal opportunity employer. We will not discriminate and will take affirmative action measures to ensure against discrimination in all positions paid or non-paid, recruitment, advertisements for employment (including volunteers, interns or students), compensation, termination, upgrading, or promotions, against any individual or applicant on the bases of race, color, gender, national origin, age, religion, creed, disability, veteran's status, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.
Annual Reports
