Jake Adams, the managing editor of Reef Builders and a passionate reefkeeper, innovator, and communicator, died suddenly and unexpectedly at the age of 41 on October 22, 2022. His death has shocked and saddened the marine aquarium world, leaving a void that will never be filled. According to Coral Magazine, Jake was on his way to Bali, Indonesia, for a planned dive expedition with Vincent Chalias of Bali Aquarium, when he collapsed on the plane and could not be revived. The cause of death is still unknown, pending autopsy results.
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Who was Jake Adams?
Jake Adams was born in 1981 and raised in France during his early years. He was an aquarist from a young age who went on to earn a degree in marine science. He had been working in the marine aquarium industry since the 1990s, and had served as the managing editor of Reef Builders since 2008. Reef Builders is a popular online platform that covers news, reviews, and opinions on all aspects of the marine aquarium hobby.
Jake was known for his curiosity, personality, and willingness to be outspoken and often controversial. He inspired and educated countless aquarists on coral husbandry and cutting-edge reefkeeping. He had a keen interest in every aspect of the hobby, from the ideas to the technology, rare fish to exotic corals. He was also a prolific speaker and writer, who shared his knowledge and passion at events, clubs, and publications around the world. He had recently been immersed in creating a state-of-the-art aquatics studio in Golden, Colorado, where he showcased his innovative and experimental aquariums.
How did the marine aquarium community react to Jake’s death?
The news of Jake’s death spread quickly on social media, where many people expressed their shock, grief, and condolences. Jake was widely respected and admired in the marine aquarium community, and many considered him a friend, mentor, and role model. He had touched the lives of many people, both personally and professionally, and had made a lasting impact on the hobby.
Some of the tributes and messages that were posted online include:
“Jake was a friend, a mentor, and could be exasperating when he was singularly focused. He will be remembered as one of the most influential contributors and champions of the hobby. He was loved by many. I am broken hearted.” – Rob Mougey, Director Emeritus of the Marine Aquarium Societies of North America (MASNA).
“Jake was a force of nature in the reef aquarium hobby. He was always pushing the boundaries, always exploring, always learning, always sharing. He was a visionary, a trailblazer, a leader, and a friend. He will be sorely missed, but never forgotten.” – Vincent Chalias, Bali Aquarium.
“Jake was one of the most passionate and knowledgeable reefers I have ever met. He was always generous with his time and advice, always enthusiastic and optimistic, always curious and adventurous. He was a legend, a hero, and a brother. He left us too soon, but he left us a legacy of coral love.” – Julian Sprung, Two Little Fishies.
How can you support Jake’s family?
Jake is survived by his wife Windsor, who is pregnant with their first child. A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to support Windsor and the baby, and to help cover the costs of bringing Jake’s body back to the US. The campaign has raised more than $80,000 in its first few days, thanks to the generosity of the marine aquarium community and beyond. If you would like to contribute, you can do so by visiting the GoFundMe page.
Jake Adams was a remarkable person who dedicated his life to the marine aquarium hobby. He was a source of inspiration, education, and entertainment for many people. He was a friend to the corals, the fish, and the reefers. He was a loving husband and a soon-to-be father. He was Jake Adams Reef Builders, and he will be dearly missed. Rest in peace, Jake.
