James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2024

AQ2001 - Introduction to Aquaculture

Subject Description

This subject aims to inspire and motivate students through research-informed teaching in this rapidly developing field. Introduction to Aquaculture discusses the scope and role of aquaculture for increasing food and profit yields of marine, brackish and freshwater organisms. This subject integrates laboratory and field based learning so that students benefit from varied circumstances, contact and settings. Students maintain their own aquaculture organisms (fish or crustaceans, depending on availability) in an intensive aquaculture system. Students will develop practical animal husbandry skills and report writing skills. The course coordinator/lecturer has considerable experience in the aquaculture industry and associated wild fisheries. The biological principles of aquaculture including species selection, hatchery breeding and rearing and grow-out practices. Aquaculture technology and systems, overseas experience and Australian potential are addressed.

Learning Outcomes

• describe the biological and other principles underlying aquaculture
• discuss the potential future of aquaculture and factors that will influence it
• explain the environmental demands, including aspects of pollution and disease, for sustained aquaculture
• describe, compare and contrast the different types of aquaculture systems

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (35%) - Individual
• Written > Test/Quiz 1 - (30%) - Individual
• Written > Abstract - (10%) - Individual
• Written > Lab/Practical report - (25%) - Individual

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.

Assumed Knowledge:  Students enrolling in this subject should have good understanding of level 1 biology, particularly zoology (eg BS1007 or equivalent). A basic understanding of chemistry and statistics is highly recommended (eg CH1001, MA1401).

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  AQ5006 AQ5806

Availabilities