Emily Chan
Finally, Team Ecco confirmed in late May that Charlotte had developed “a rare reproductive disease that has negatively impacted her reproductive system.”
They referred to the findings as “sad and unexpected.” The actual disease was never specified, but the facility said that specialists were working to learn more about the disease.
“While the research of this disease is limited, we hope that Charlotte’s case and medical treatment will positively contribute to science and be of benefit to other rays in the future,” Team Ecco stated.
In June, the aquarium declared that Charlotte was no longer pregnant but was in stable condition and engaged in her normal routine.
Team Ecco is a grassroots program founded and run by a former public school teacher named Brenda Ramer.
The aquarium sees an average of 10,000 visitors per year, according to its website. It is not accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums or other similar programs.
