Protecting Aquatic Ecosystems
& Amazonian Fish
Veterinarian specializing in aquatic animal health, sustainable water management, and fish conservation. I provide technical consulting, public aquarium design, and specialized training worldwide.
Work with meAbout me
José Barrio, DVM
I'm a veterinarian dedicated to aquatic ecosystem health, sustainable water management, and the conservation of aquatic life in human‑care environments. My work bridges clinical practice and laboratory research in public aquariums with hands‑on teaching and technical advisory roles across the aquariology and conservation field.
Currently, I serve as Aquatic Ecosystem Health Advisor at Urku Estudios Amazónicos (Tarapoto, Peru). There, I monitor water chemistry, design and maintain exhibit aquariums, manage life support systems, oversee quarantine protocols, provide veterinary treatments, and support captive breeding efforts for Amazonian species.
Since 2019, I've been Professor of Aquariology at INSTINTIA, where I teach the course "Specialist Technician in Marine Fauna and Large Aquariums". My modules cover water quality management, life support systems, fish quarantine, and fish pathology.
Before that, I was Quarantine and Water Lab Manager at the Aquarium of Zaragoza, where I developed quarantine protocols and health monitoring systems. I've also worked as a fish veterinarian and advisor for specialized aquarium stores, giving me a well‑rounded perspective on the industry.
What drives me: Protecting aquatic biodiversity, ensuring animal welfare, and training the next generation of aquarists and conservation professionals.
What I offer
Technical consulting
Aquatic system diagnostics, filtration design, biosecurity planning, disease prevention, and water quality optimization for public aquariums and research labs.
Inquire →Public aquarium design
Designing sustainable aquarium systems for public exhibits, with a focus on authentic habitat recreation, robust life support, and optimal welfare for displayed species.
Inquire →Specialized training
Tailored courses on water management, life support systems, quarantine protocols, fish disease diagnosis, and best practices in aquariology for professionals and institutions.
Inquire →Key experience
Urku Estudios Amazónicos
Based in Tarapoto, Peru, I advise on aquatic health for Amazonian species. My work includes water quality control, life support system design, and captive breeding programs.
Teaching at INSTINTIA
Professor for the "Specialist Technician in Marine Fauna and Large Aquariums" course, training future professionals in water management, life support, quarantine, and fish pathology.
Aquarium of Zaragoza
As Quarantine and Water Lab Manager, I created health protocols, ran diagnostics, supervised treatments, and served as the facility's fish veterinarian.
Education & publications
Academic background
- ✓ Diploma of Specialization in Aquaculture
- ✓ Microcredential in Water Technology (University of Salamanca)
- ✓ Higher Technician in Water Management (CIDEAD)
- ✓ Open Water Diver certified
- ✓ Licensed animal keeper & handler for zoological facilities
Publications
- ✓ Co‑author of the manual "Specialist Technician in Marine Fauna and Large Aquariums"
- ✓ Published research on the importance of quarantine systems for fish in aquariums
My approach
I combine clinical experience, technical management, teaching, and multidisciplinary training to deliver practical, evidence‑based solutions for aquatic conservation and animal welfare.