“Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela.
At the Amazon Research Center for Ornamental Fishes (ARCOF), education is at the heart of our mission and is delivered in various forms and at multiple levels. From our Environmental Education Wall at the Aquarium of the Amazon to our participation in international conferences, ARCOF is dedicated to supporting, promoting, and providing education on the conservation of fish and their habitats in the Peruvian Amazon. Explore below to learn more about the diverse educational initiatives ARCOF engages in.
Local Schools
We collaborate directly with primary and secondary schools to organize class field trips to the Aquarium of the Amazon. During their visit, students participate in our educational program, which focuses on conservation and environmental awareness. The program includes age-appropriate videos, followed by engaging team activities related to the content. After these activities, students enjoy an interactive tour of the aquarium, exploring its exhibits firsthand.
Each child receives a copy of The Adventures of Nalda and Eduardo, a book that introduces them to Nalda, our beloved mascot. Through Nalda’s adventures, children learn how everyone can play a role in protecting the environment.
Science Fairs and Scout Troops
Local science fairs provide us with a unique opportunity to engage with older students through interactive displays and one-on-one or small group discussions, allowing for more in-depth exploration of environmental topics. We also collaborate closely with scout groups, tailoring our educational content to align with the requirements of their badge activities.
Working alongside scout leaders, we ensure that our programs complement the troop’s goals, enriching their learning experience. During these visits, scouts are divided into smaller groups to participate in interactive tours of the aquarium, making their learning both hands-on and engaging.
Fisher Associations
Fisher associations are spread throughout the Peruvian Amazon and its vast network of waterways. While small groups have visited our research center over the years, we’ve discovered that providing on-site education in the villages offers a more effective and comprehensive approach to teaching fish husbandry and conservation practices.
Our conservation-focused education emphasizes sustainable fishing techniques and the importance of protecting local ecosystems. By demonstrating practical methods, such as habitat management and selective breeding, we help fishermen understand how to maintain healthy fish populations and minimize their environmental impact. We also teach the importance of reducing overfishing, preserving critical habitats, and preventing the spread of invasive species.
The images above are from our outreach efforts in the villages of Frontera and España, where we work directly with local communities to foster a culture of conservation and environmental responsibility.
Local, National and International Scientific Conferences
ARCOF collaborates with the Universidad Nacional de la Amazonia Peruana (UNAP), supporting students in research and hosting guest lecturers, providing hands-on learning that equips students with practical skills for careers in fisheries and conservation.
Carlos Chuquipiondo, ARCOF’s Resident Director, has presented at national conferences hosted by the Ministry of Production (Fisheries), sharing research on ornamental fish aquaculture and educating policymakers on sustainable practices. Dr. Anthony Mazeroll frequently lectures at fish associations throughout the United States, presenting ARCOF’s work on invasive species and aquaculture, bridging research with real- world applications.
Internationally, both Dr. Mazeroll and Carlos attended the 11th International Fisheries Symposium in Thailand, where Dr. Mazeroll presented on sustainable breeding of ornamental fish to reduce wild-capture impact. Carlos recently taught a course on fish health at a conference in Colombia, enhancing participants’ skills in sustainable fish management.
Through these efforts, ARCOF advances fish conservation science and empowers communities to support sustainable use of Amazonian resources.