James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2020

AQ3015 - Sustainable Aquaculture

Subject Description

This subject investigates the sustainability of aquaculture as the industry expands and the world faces critical shortages in food supplies. It addresses contentious issues such as wild resource harvesting, the physical effects of aquaculture, aquaculture wastes, disease and parasites, and the impacts of introductions and escapees. It also addresses how to develop and implement sustainable aquaculture systems. Therefore, as a result of studying this subject, students will be able to critically assess the environmental sustainability and suitability of existing and developing aquaculture industries, as well as quantify the benefits of sustainable aquaculture practices. This subject integrates field and laboratory based learning so that students benefit from varied circumstances, contact and settings. Students maintain an integrated aqua-agri system at the university. The system is designed to be 'off-the-grid' and involves propagation of fish, crustaceans, plants and poultry. Students will also carry out necropsies on fish to identify disease and biosecurity risks; visit Midwest Biodiesel (MBD), or similiar, to learn about the potential for the future contribution of sustainable algae production; gain an understanding of the role of aquaculture in islander livelihoods and other developing countries; and learn to propagate coral fragments. Each day of this intensive is centred around one main sustainability theme which is delivered by experts in that area. The course coordinator has considerable experience in the aquaculture industry, and aquatic animal health.

Learning Outcomes

• define the environmental impacts of an aquaculture system
• determine the sustainability of an aquaculture system
• describe environmental best practice for developing and operating sustainable aquaculture systems
• determine, implement and maintain sustainable aquaculture practices

Subject Assessment

• Non-Invigilated > Assignments - (50%)
• Invigilated > Centrally-administered final exam - (50%)

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  AQ3005 AQ5005 AQ5015 AQ5815

Availabilities