Paolo Martelli is director of veterinary services at Ocean Park Hong Kong, an animal theme park. Ocean Park is a member of WAZA and was the first-ever facility outside of North America to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Martelli has made remarkable contributions to veterinary science and wildlife conservation. With more than two decades of experience, he has become a leading figure in the field. He is known for his innovative approaches and dedication to animal welfare.
“Dr Martelli’s career is marked by numerous pioneering achievements,” said one person who nominated him. One of these is the successful artificial insemination of a cownose ray, which resulted in the birth of the world’s first cownose ray pup through this method.
“This groundbreaking achievement underscores his expertise in marine life sciences and his commitment to advancing conservation techniques. His work has set a new standard for breeding programs, particularly for endangered species, and has provided valuable insights into the reproductive biology of elasmobranchs,” they added.
Paolo Martelli has played a crucial role in managing and caring for a diverse range of species at Ocean Park Hong Kong. His leadership has been instrumental in developing and implementing comprehensive veterinary care programmes to ensure the health and well-being of the park’s animal residents. His efforts have improved the quality of life for these animals and enhanced the park’s reputation as a leader in animal care and conservation.
Throughout his career, Martelli has received several accolades for his contributions to veterinary science and conservation. His work has been recognised by peers and institutions across the world, reflecting his status as a leading expert in his field. He actively engages with the community to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation.
Since 2005, the Ocean Park Conservation Foundation has allocated more than HK$100 million to fund 560 research projects on cetaceans, giant pandas and many other species.