Biota and Environment of Natural Areas

Humboldt penguins Spheniscus humboldti Meyen, 1834: rare species being successfully maintained and bred at the Primorsky Aquarium

Fomenko M.A. 1 , Kreschenovskaya V.A. 1 , Magarlamov T.Y. 2
1 Primorsky Aquarium, branch of the A. V. Zhirmunsky National Scientific Center for Marine Biology, Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Vladivostok, 690017, Russian Federation
2 A. V. Zhirmunsky National Scientific Center for Marine Biology, Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Vladivostok, 690041, Russian Federation

Year: 2026, Number: 2, Pages: 91-99

Using direct observation and video recording, the study examined short-term indicators showing the adaptation of Spheniscus humboldti Meyen, 1834 to the Primorsky Aquarium environment, including their feeding activity, behavioral responses, and moulting patterns, as well as long-term parameters reflecting the success of captive maintenance and reproduction of the species. The results highlight the important role of social interaction and environmental conditions in accelerating acclimation and enhancing reproductive success. The original data obtained from the research were used to develop recommendations for effective maintenance and breeding of S. humboldti in public aquariums and zoos, which is of significant importance for the conservation of this species and the maintenance of sustainable populations in artificial environments.

DOI: 10.25221/2782-1978_2026_2_9

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Keywords: Humboldt penguin, Spheniscus humboldti, husbandry, acclimation, Primorsky Aquarium,

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