It is with heavy hearts that the Board of Directors of the Marine Aquarium Societies of North
America (MASNA) announces the closure of the organization. Despite our best efforts to
revitalize MASNA and navigate the challenges of recent years, we have been unable to secure
the necessary support to sustain our operations.
MASNA proudly organized the Marine Aquarium Conference of North America (MACNA),
which for over three decades served as a thriving resource for aquarists to connect with peers,
learn from experts, and grow their skills. We are forever grateful for the tens of thousands of
attendees, hundreds of vendors, a wide range of sponsors, and upwards of 200 presenters over
the years. However, like many in-person events, MACNA faced significant challenges during
and after the COVID-19 pandemic. These impacts have contributed to the difficult decision we
now face. As the sun sets on MACNA in its current form, we take pride in the meaningful
contributions the conference has made to the marine aquarium community.
Over recent years, the way we communicate and connect has shifted dramatically, reshaping the
landscape for the organizations that serve our community. The growing dominance of digital
platforms has transformed how knowledge and expertise are shared, but this evolution also
highlights the need for a new, modernized MASNA-like community organization—a centralized
hub where the marine aquarists can unite, collaborate, and succeed together. While MASNA
must close its doors, the challenges we face today present an opportunity where something new
can rise—a future organization that will meet the needs of aquarists in this digital age.
We believe that with the right vision, dedication, and community support, something new and
even stronger could reestablish in its place—a community-driven platform that not only connects
aquarists but also upholds the passion and commitment to responsible practices that MASNA has
always represented. The potential for a redefined MASNA remains, and perhaps one day, we will
see its revival, adapted to the evolving needs of our community.
For many years, MASNA served as a trusted source of knowledge and expertise, and as we move
forward, we encourage all aquarists to remain diligent in their pursuit of excellence by
continuing to seek out reliable, validated information. Exceptional, vetted sources of knowledge
still exist, including respected print publications, many of which are now available digitally,
offering both convenience and a reduced environmental impact.
The MASNA board urges you to continue supporting the remaining community groups and
locally-owned brick-and-mortar fish stores. These pillars of our hobby are essential for
maintaining the high standards that make aquarium keeping such a meaningful and rewarding
experience. Without them, it may become too easy for the quality of the marine aquarium
community to wane.
Thank you for your unwavering dedication throughout the years. Though MASNA may be
closing, the passion for the marine aquarium hobby lives on through each of you.With gratitude,
The MASNA Board of Directors