Open sea pens, also known as sea enclosures or sea cages, are large, netted areas in the ocean where marine mammals can be kept in captivity. These pens provide a more natural environment for these animals compared to traditional tanks or pools found in marine parks and aquariums.
One example of open sea pens is located in California, where the US Navy has kept dolphins, sea lions, killer whales, and other marine mammals. These animals are trained for various military tasks, such as locating underwater mines or assisting in rescue missions. The open sea pens in California provide a larger and more realistic space for these animals to swim and exercise, mimicking their natural habitat.
Another notable example is the National Aquarium in Baltimore, Maryland, which has plans to build a sea enclosure for its dolphins by 2020. The aquarium aims to create a more spacious and natural environment for their dolphins, allowing them to exhibit more natural behaviors and engage in a wider range of activities. This project is part of a growing trend in the aquarium industry to move away from traditional tank displays and towards more open and immersive habitats for marine mammals.
In addition to these specific examples, there are other open sea pens around the world where marine mammals are kept in captivity. These pens can be found in various locations, often near coastal areas where the animals can have access to the natural seawater. The size and design of these enclosures can vary depending on the specific needs of the animals and the purpose of their captivity.
It is important to note that the use of open sea pens for keeping marine mammals in captivity is a topic of debate and controversy. While these pens may provide a larger and more naturalistic environment compared to traditional tanks, there are still concerns about the ethical implications of keeping these highly intelligent and social animals in confinement. The impact of captivity on the physical and mental well-being of marine mammals is a subject of ongoing research and discussion.
Open sea pens are an alternative to traditional tanks or pools for keeping marine mammals in captivity. They aim to provide a more natural and spacious environment for these animals, allowing them to exhibit more natural behaviors and engage in a wider range of activities. However, the ethical implications of captivity and the well-being of the animals are important considerations in the ongoing debate surrounding the use of open sea pens.