Inflow: Aquatic Animal Life Support Systems and Habitats

Joe and Dr. Jeff
  • 5.0 (6)
  • NATURAL SCIENCES

Joe and Dr. Jeff discuss all things related to Zoo and Aquarium Aquatic Animal Life Support Systems. Everything from water treatment equipment and design to operations and construction. We talk to operators, engineers, architects, curators, and anyone and everyone who works on keeping our zoo and aquarium water clean, our animals healthy, our exhibits natural and our systems sustainable.

  1. Ep 36 - The Operator's Mindset: Denitrification, Ozone, and Real-World LSS Design

    3D AGO

    Ep 36 - The Operator's Mindset: Denitrification, Ozone, and Real-World LSS Design

    In this episode of INFLOW: Aquatic Animal Life Support Systems and Habitats, hosts Joe Arlotto and Dr. Jeff Keaffaber are joined by Andy Aiken, Director of Life Support Programs at the National Aquarium in Baltimore, for a practical, operations-first conversation on designing and running aquarium life support systems (LSS) that truly work in the real world. Andy shares decades of hands-on experience managing complex aquatic systems and explains why successful LSS design must start with the operator's perspective. The discussion covers critical topics including denitrification strategies, ozone application, water quality management, redundancy, and long-term system reliability, with a strong focus on lessons learned from daily operations—not just drawings and specifications. Listeners will learn: Why operator input is essential in LSS design and decision-making Practical approaches to denitrification and nutrient control How ozone is used safely and effectively in large aquarium systems Common gaps between design intent and operational reality How systems thinking improves animal welfare and facility performance (2:31) Meet Andy Aiken (5:59) Music detour (9:22) Breaking into the National Aquarium (10:14) Denitrification 101 (15:57) Reactor design deep dive (22:50) Operational strategy & decision checklist (26:09) Ditching Chlorine (31:40) The "Aiken Sump" Explained (38:27) Consulting Roles & the Power of Operator-Led Design Review (44:35) Final Advice for New LSS Pros + Closing Thanks Whether you're an LSS operator, engineer, designer, aquarist, or facility leader, this episode delivers actionable insight into building and maintaining life support systems that are resilient, maintainable, and animal-centered.

    48 min

  2. JAN 30

    Ep 35 - Navigating Aquatic Life Support: Insights from Mystic Aquarium with Todd Devlin-Perry

    In this episode of INFLOW: Aquatic Animal Life Support Systems and Habitats, hosts Joe Arlotto and Dr. Jeff Keaffaber welcome Todd Devlin-Perry, President of AALSO and Life Support Manager at Mystic Aquarium, for a deep dive into modern aquarium operations, workforce development, and the future of aquatic life support systems (LSS). Todd shares his journey from plumbing and pool construction to managing 2.4 million gallons of synthetic seawater at one of the country's leading aquariums. The conversation explores large-scale LSS design, backwash recovery systems, ozone disinfection, SCADA automation, and the hidden infrastructure required to support marine mammals and aquatic habitats. The episode also highlights AALSO's critical role in education, certification, and professional networking, including how conferences, workshops, and hands-on training are shaping the next generation of LSS operators. Listeners will learn: How Mystic Aquarium manages complex closed-loop life support systems Why backwash recovery and water reuse are essential in modern aquariums The intersection of engineering, biology, and animal welfare How AALSO certification and conferences advance LSS careers Practical advice for entering the aquatic life support industry Whether you're an aquarist, LSS technician, engineer, or zoo and aquarium professional, this episode delivers real-world insight into the systems—and people—that keep aquatic life thriving. (00:00) - Introduction and Acknowledgements (03:57) - Todd's Journey into LSS (06:17) - Challenges and Innovations in Aquarium LSS (08:32) - Mystic Aquarium: Operations and Systems (15:25) - Synthetic Seawater and Backwash Recovery (26:11) - Rescue and Rehabilitation Operations (29:38) - Evolution of LSS Operations (32:02) - Involvement in AALSO and Professional Growth (36:03) - Planning and Organizing Conferences (42:19) - Certification and Venue Selection (48:05) - Advice for Aspiring LSS Operators   Stay connected at https://inflowlsspodcast.com/

    50 min
  3. Ep 34 - Aquarists as Life Support Operators: Education, Certification, and the Future of LSS with Trevor Erdmann

    JAN 23

    Ep 34 - Aquarists as Life Support Operators: Education, Certification, and the Future of LSS with Trevor Erdmann

    In this episode of INFLOW: Aquatic Animal Life Support Systems and Habitats, hosts Joe Arlotto and Dr. Jeff Keaffaber welcome Trevor Erdmann, Vice President of AALSO and Senior Aquarist at the Hatfield Marine Science Center, for an in-depth conversation on the evolving role of aquarists as life support system (LSS) operators. Trevor shares how modern aquarists are increasingly responsible for water quality, filtration, system troubleshooting, and operational decision-making, blurring the lines between husbandry and engineering. The discussion explores the importance of education, hands-on training, and professional certification, and how organizations like AALSO are helping shape consistent standards across the industry. Listeners will learn: Why aquarists play a critical role in day-to-day LSS operations How education and certification pathways support safer, more reliable systems The skills today's aquarists need beyond animal care How improved training directly impacts animal welfare and system performance What the future holds for LSS workforce development Whether you're an aquarist, LSS operator, engineer, or aquatic facility leader, this episode offers valuable insight into how training, certification, and cross-disciplinary collaboration are shaping the future of life support systems. Stay connected at https://inflowlsspodcast.com/   (00:00) Introduction and Sponsors (01:06) Role of an Aquarist (04:12) Trevor's Background (09:57) Building the Living Planet Aquarium (15:11) Custom Skid Systems and Water Quality (24:14) Involvement with AALSO (27:46) Dual Certification Tracks: LSS and Water Quality (31:37) Hands-On Training and Equipment Maintenance (33:53) Student Success and Career Placement (39:33) Role of Education and Training Committee (47:14) Advice for Aspiring Professionals (50:36) Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    51 min

  4. JAN 16

    Ep 33 - From Submarines to Aquariums: Joe Poniatowski on Life Support Systems That Can't Fail

    In this episode of INFLOW: Aquatic Animal Life Support Systems and Habitats, hosts Joe Arlotto and Dr. Jeff Keaffaber sit down with Joe Poniatowski of Asahi/America for a deep, experience-driven conversation on life support systems (LSS) design, operations, and reliability. Joe shares a unique career journey that spans submarine systems, industrial piping, and public aquariums, offering rare insight into what happens when systems fail—and how smart design choices can prevent it. The discussion covers real-world lessons from HDPE and thermoplastic piping, pressure management, redundancy, automation limits, and why human decision-making remains critical in high-stakes aquatic environments. In this episode, you'll learn: What submarines and aquariums have in common when it comes to life support reliability How piping materials and system layout impact long-term LSS performance Why automation alone isn't enough to prevent failures Common design and operational mistakes—and how to avoid them How experience in operations shapes better engineering and material selection Whether you're an LSS operator, engineer, designer, or facility manager, this episode delivers practical, hard-earned insights into building systems that protect animals, people, and facilities when failure is not an option.

    52 min
  5. Ep 32 - Designing at Scale: Lessons from Multi-Facility Aquarium Operations with Joe Choromanski

    12/30/2025

    Ep 32 - Designing at Scale: Lessons from Multi-Facility Aquarium Operations with Joe Choromanski

    In this episode of INFLOW: Aquatic Animal Life Support Systems and Habitats, hosts Joe Arlotto and Dr. Jeff Keaffaber are joined by Joe Choromanski, President of Serviette, for a wide-ranging conversation on what it takes to design, operate, and scale aquarium life support systems (LSS) across multiple facilities. Drawing on decades of experience in public aquariums, Joe shares lessons learned from overseeing large, complex aquatic systems, comparing artificial and natural seawater, and adapting LSS designs to different climates, budgets, and operational realities. The discussion explores how early design decisions affect long-term reliability, animal welfare, and operating costs. Listeners will learn: Key principles for designing LSS at scale across multiple aquariums Operational differences between artificial and natural seawater systems How to balance innovation, standardization, and site-specific needs Common challenges in multi-facility aquarium operations—and how to avoid them Why experience-driven design leads to more resilient aquatic systems Whether you're an LSS engineer, aquarium operator, facility leader, or designer, this episode delivers practical insights into building durable, scalable, and biologically sound life support systems that stand the test of time.

    44 min
  6. Ep 31 - Lighting, Air, and Water: Rethinking Life Support Systems with Gal Judah

    12/19/2025

    Ep 31 - Lighting, Air, and Water: Rethinking Life Support Systems with Gal Judah

    In this episode of the INFLOW podcast, we explore how modern Life Support Systems (LSS) go far beyond filtration and plumbing. Joined by Gal Judah, Area Sales Manager at Georg Fischer, the conversation dives into the evolving role of LSS in zoos, aquariums, and aquatic facilities—where lighting, air quality, controls, and integrated infrastructure are just as critical as water. Gal shares his unique path into the LSS world through the skilled trades, offering insight into how electrical systems, advanced lighting technologies, piping solutions, and automation all intersect to support animal health, welfare, and operational reliability. The episode highlights how collaboration between operators, engineers, vendors, and designers is reshaping how facilities are built, upgraded, and maintained. Listeners will gain perspective on: How lighting and air systems directly impact aquatic and terrestrial habitats The growing technical skill set required of today's LSS professionals Why integrated system design is essential for long-term sustainability The role of manufacturers and vendors in advancing LSS innovation Whether you work in aquatic life support, zoo and aquarium operations, engineering, or facility management, this episode offers valuable insights into where the industry is headed and how rethinking LSS can lead to healthier animals and smarter facilities. 🎧 Subscribe to INFLOW on Apple Podcasts and Spotify for in-depth conversations on life support systems, aquatic engineering, and the professionals behind the world's most complex animal habitats. Stay connected at: https://inflowlsspodcast.com/

    53 min
  7. Ep 30 - LSS at Scale: Leading the Singapore Oceanarium with Mike Bajek

    12/05/2025

    Ep 30 - LSS at Scale: Leading the Singapore Oceanarium with Mike Bajek

    In this episode of INFLOW: Aquatic Animal Life Support Systems and Habitats, hosts Joe Arlotto and Dr. Jeff Keaffaber sit down with Mike Bajek, Senior Director of Life Support Systems at the Singapore Oceanarium, to explore what it takes to design, manage, and scale one of the largest and most advanced aquarium facilities in the world. Mike shares his journey from Pittsburgh to Singapore and offers a behind-the-scenes look at the engineering, innovation, and leadership required to support massive aquatic habitats housing diverse marine life. The conversation dives into the complexity of high-volume filtration systems, redundancy planning, water quality control, and the intersection of sustainability and technology in modern oceanariums. In this episode, you'll learn: What it takes to operate multi-million-gallon LSS systems at scale How the Singapore Oceanarium approaches water quality, reliability, and efficiency The role of design thinking and collaboration in large-scale aquarium projects Why leadership and long-term planning are critical in complex aquatic environments Emerging trends shaping the future of aquarium engineering and life support systems Whether you're an LSS operator, engineer, designer, or aquatic facilities professional, this episode delivers valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of running life support systems on a global scale. Stay connected with INFLOW at: https://inflowlsspodcast.com/

    47 min
  8. Ep 29 - Finding the Right Fit: Hiring in the Aquatic LSS World

    11/21/2025

    Ep 29 - Finding the Right Fit: Hiring in the Aquatic LSS World

    In this episode of INFLOW: Aquatic Animal Life Support Systems and Habitats, hosts Joe Arlotto and Dr. Jeff Keaffaber talk with Mark Peacock, founder of Clean Search, to explore the unique world of hiring, recruitment, and talent development within the aquatic life support systems (LSS) industry. Mark breaks down what makes LSS roles so specialized, why organizations struggle to find qualified candidates, and how the right recruitment strategy can transform zoos, aquariums, and aquatic facilities. From essential technical skills to leadership qualities and cultural fit, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at building strong, reliable teams in a highly technical field. We also cover: What sets LSS and aquatic engineering roles apart from other technical positions How zoos and aquariums can attract and retain top-tier LSS talent The growing need for operator-to-engineer pathways in aquatic facilities Trends shaping the future of aquatic facility staffing and workforce development Whether you're an LSS professional, a hiring manager, or part of a zoo or aquarium operations team, this conversation provides practical insights into finding the right fit in one of the most specialized corners of the industry. Stay connected with INFLOW at: https://inflowlsspodcast.com/

    47 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Joe and Dr. Jeff discuss all things related to Zoo and Aquarium Aquatic Animal Life Support Systems. Everything from water treatment equipment and design to operations and construction. We talk to operators, engineers, architects, curators, and anyone and everyone who works on keeping our zoo and aquarium water clean, our animals healthy, our exhibits natural and our systems sustainable.

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