The Florida Aquarium Earns Prestigious Accreditation

The Designation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Marks the Aquarium’s Sixth Consecutive Accreditation

The Florida Aquarium has once again earned one of the highest honors in the industry—accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Announced at AZA’s Mid-Year Meeting in Palm Springs, California, the distinction recognizes the Aquarium’s dedication to animal care, conservation, education, guest experience, fiscal responsibility and facility management.

Since 1997, The Florida Aquarium has proudly held this accreditation, reaffirming that every visit, membership, and community partnership supports world-class care and groundbreaking research that makes a difference for marine wildlife. Out of thousands of animal care institutions, only 252 in 12 different countries hold this designation. That means when guests walk through the doors of The Florida Aquarium, they’re stepping into one of the best in the world—right here in Tampa Bay.

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“AZA accreditation is not just a milestone we achieve every five years—it’s a daily commitment to excellence,” said Roger Germann, president and CEO of The Florida Aquarium. “This rigorous process reflects the tireless efforts of our team, Board of Directors and our shared purpose to protect and inspire a love for aquatic animals. We are honored to continue being recognized as one of the premier conservation-based aquariums in the world.”

Germann, who is currently serving a three-year term on the AZA Board of Directors—the first time a leader from The Florida Aquarium has held this role—added: “Our responsibility now is to uphold this distinction, maintain the high standards we demonstrated during this accreditation process, and continue to create the world’s greatest aquarium that our community deserves.”

Why AZA Accreditation Matters

AZA accreditation includes a detailed application and a meticulous multiple-day on-site inspection by an independent team of zoological professionals. The evaluation assesses every aspect of an institution’s operations, and signifies the Aquarium’s commitment to:

• Exceptional Animal Care & Veterinary Excellence – Providing world-class medical care, enrichment, and welfare for all animals under its stewardship.
• Conservation Leadership – Advancing global conservation efforts, including marine life rehabilitation and coral restoration.
• Education & Community Impact – Inspiring and educating millions of guests annually through immersive programs and outreach.
• Facility & Guest Services – Offering a top-tier visitor experience while upholding industry-leading safety and sustainability practices.

“Congratulations to the leadership and staff at The Florida Aquarium for attaining the global ‘gold standard’ in zoological and aquarium accreditation,” said Dan Ashe, president and CEO of AZA. “The Florida Aquarium continues to clear and raise the bar for excellence in animal care, advancing scientific research, and fostering meaningful connections between people and nature. Their accomplishment is truly commendable.”

Looking Ahead

As The Florida Aquarium celebrates this achievement, it remains focused on protecting and restoring our blue planet. This September, the Aquarium will welcome 3,000 AZA colleagues for the Annual Conference, an opportunity to showcase why it remains a leader in marine conservation and education.

To arrange an in-person or virtual interview with Roger Germann, please contact Kendra Oestreich at Kendra@CatalystCG.com or (813) 944-9510. For more information on The Florida Aquarium and its ongoing initiatives, visit flaquarium.org.

About The Florida Aquarium

This year marks the 30th anniversary of The Florida Aquarium, a cornerstone of Tampa Bay’s transformation into a globally recognized destination. Since opening in 1995, this 501c (3) nonprofit organization has been dedicated to environmental stewardship through purpose-driven conservation, research, education, and outreach programs. Welcoming more than a million guests annually, The Florida Aquarium provides world-class experiences that inspire action to protect marine wildlife. Home to a diverse array of aquatic and terrestrial animals, the Aquarium is committed to exceptional animal care and fostering a deeper connection to the ocean through immersive exhibits. Driven by a commitment to saving marine wildlife, The Florida Aquarium remains a world-renowned leader in groundbreaking research and rescue efforts that help restore Florida’s coral reefs and sea turtle populations. For more information, visit flaquarium.org and follow on X (Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn.

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“AZA accreditation is not just a milestone we achieve every five years—it’s a daily commitment to excellence,” said Roger Germann, president and CEO of The Florida Aquarium.