At the New England Aquarium in Boston, daily operations begin well before visitors arrive, supported by a dedicated team focused on animal care, environmental quality, and visitor services. The facility, home to nearly 750 animals housed in a 200,000-gallon Giant Ocean Tank among other exhibits, relies on precise coordination among staff members to maintain its aquatic populations and provide an engaging experience for the public.
Shortly after 7 a.m., aquarist Jenn Chamberlain, who manages environmental quality, collects water samples from various tanks and the nearby Boston Harbor to monitor water conditions. Chamberlain, who previously taught chemistry and physics, emphasizes the importance of maintaining optimal water quality for the animals’ well-being, noting that Boston boasts one of the cleanest urban harbors in the United States. The collected samples undergo rigorous testing, including measuring chlorine levels to ensure the safety of the aquariums’ inhabitants and compliance before any water can be returned to the harbor.
In another part of the aquarium, aquarist Shannon Baker prepares food for the diverse species under her care. Baker, 28, grew up in Middleborough surrounded by animals and has interned twice at the aquarium before joining the staff full-time seven years ago. Her routine includes carefully defrosting and portioning various items such as clams, shrimp, squid, and silversides to provide balanced diets. She described some feedings as “backyard barbecue style,” highlighting the diversity of the animals’ nutritional needs. One standout species in her care is Astoria, a female giant Pacific octopus, whose enclosure is specially designed with a turf-covered hatch to prevent escape, reflecting the octopus’s notable intelligence and agility.
Maintenance work is another critical component of the daily schedule. Baker also oversees backwashing procedures that remove debris from water filtration systems crucial to the aquarium’s habitats. She noted that unlike her previous work as a waitress, the aquarium environment is notable for the prominent roles women hold, including handling power tools and maintenance tasks typically perceived as male-dominated.
Meanwhile, at the front of the aquarium, ticket staffer Mike Penzo prepares for the influx of guests. Penzo, approaching his eighth year at the aquarium after transitioning from a career in bartending, assists thousands of visitors daily. The aquarium counts approximately 14,000 members and experiences peak attendance in summer, with more than 6,000 people entering on busy days. Penzo enjoys witnessing the community’s response to exhibits, including families observing the outdoor seal enclosure just outside the ticket booth.
Veterinarians and animal trainers complement the work behind the scenes, ensuring the care and enrichment of the aquarium’s residents. Patrick Beckles, a staff member with 36 years of experience, oversees visitor operations and highlights the extensive support network that keeps the aquarium functioning smoothly, from researchers studying marine environments to the front-line staff managing public interactions.
As the morning progresses and the doors open, the New England Aquarium continues its mission of conservation, education, and providing a window into marine life for the Greater Boston area and beyond.