Case Study: How Clearwater Marine Aquarium is Using Fogponics to Feed Its Rescue Animals
Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) has always been at the forefront of marine animal rescue, rehabilitation and conservation. With its commitment to sustainability and innovation, CMA is pioneering new ways to grow fresh greens on-site for its rescue and education animals. By using a Plantaform Smart Indoor Garden, the aquarium has begun growing greens for animals like Vlad, a Russian tortoise, and is exploring whether to expand on-site growing for larger marine life such as manatees. Plantaform continues to partner with Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s Mission
Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s mission is to preserve the environment while inspiring the human spirit through leadership in the rescue, rehabilitation and release of marine life, environmental education, research and conservation. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, CMA focuses on meaningful impact for marine wildlife and ecosystems.
Dorree Gurdak, Vice President of Marketing at CMA, says:
“Our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and release marine life while fostering environmental stewardship. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, and this collaboration with Plantaform allows us to take another step toward more sustainable animal care practices.”
The Plantaform Smart Indoor Garden at CMA
Plantaform grows plants with soil-free fogponics — a NASA-inspired approach that delivers a fine nutrient mist to the roots and uses water efficiently. CMA has introduced a Plantaform Smart Indoor Garden as a proof of concept, growing fresh greens such as romaine lettuce for its animals.
Alberto Aguilar, Co-Founder and CEO of Plantaform Technology Inc., says:
“We’re thrilled to collaborate with Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Our missions align perfectly, and we see tremendous potential in scaling up our fogponics technology to support the incredible work CMA does. This is just the beginning.”
The egg-shaped garden grows 15 plants at once in three horizontal rows of five. Full-spectrum red and white LEDs auto-adjust by growth stage. It uses a 2 L top tank and a 7 L bottom tank — most gardens need a refill every 2–3 weeks. Recyclable plant pods come in Plant Packs such as Leafy Mix and Herb Essentials (Sweet Basil, Thai Basil, Parsley, Oregano and Cilantro). Harvest greens any time of day once they’re ready. For setup help, see the Plant Pack Instruction Sheet, the Growing Guide and our Getting Started guide.
Feeding Rescue and Education Animals
Greens grown in the Plantaform garden are already supporting several of CMA’s animals, including Vlad, a Russian tortoise who has been part of the Education Department since 2014.
Lindsay Roland, Director of Conservation Education at CMA, says:
“Vlad plays a vital role in our educational programs, helping to teach visitors about different types of turtles and responsible pet ownership. He enjoys a diet of leafy greens, carrots, and sweet potatoes, and we’re excited to be able to provide him with high-quality, home-grown romaine lettuce.”
As CMA explores expanding the use of this technology, a next step is on-site growing for larger marine animals such as manatees, which need large amounts of food each day.
The Vision for the Future
Clearwater Marine Aquarium is no stranger to adapting and rebuilding. After two hurricanes in 2024, the team has been focused on strengthening sustainability initiatives alongside its rescue work.
Dr. James Powell, Chief Zoological Officer & Executive Director of CMA, said:
“Sustainability is not just a goal—it’s a necessity. By incorporating cutting-edge agricultural solutions like fogponics, we can create a self-sufficient food supply for our rescue animals while reducing our ecological footprint. We’re excited about the future and the possibilities this partnership brings.”
Plantaform and CMA are aligned in their dedication to conservation and practical innovation. Growing greens on-site can lessen reliance on outside food sources, cut waste and give animals fresher produce. This proof of concept is a first step toward a more sustainable food system for CMA’s animals.
Follow Clearwater Marine Aquarium
To follow CMA’s rescue and rehab work, visit:
Frequently Asked Questions
When was this Clearwater Marine Aquarium case study published?
February 4, 2025.
Is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium partnership still active?
Yes. Plantaform continues to partner with Clearwater Marine Aquarium. For current rescue programs and updates, visit Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
What is CMA growing in the garden?
CMA introduced a Plantaform Smart Indoor Garden as a proof of concept, growing fresh greens such as romaine lettuce for animals including Vlad the Russian tortoise.
Has CMA expanded growing for manatees?
Expanding on-site growing for larger marine animals such as manatees is one of the next steps being explored. For current programs, visit Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
How often do I refill a Plantaform Smart Indoor Garden?
Most gardens need a refill every 2–3 weeks. The top tank holds 2 L and the bottom tank holds 7 L.
Where can I get setup help?
Visit the Help Center for the FAQ and Growing Guide, or email support@plantaform.com.
Ready to Grow?
Inspired by this case study, or just getting started? We’d love to help you grow. Explore the Plantaform Smart Indoor Garden, pick your first Plant Packs, visit the Help Center, or reach us anytime at support@plantaform.com.
