James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2024

MB3150 - Fisheries Science

Subject Description

Fisheries science in tropical waters with an emphasis on the biology of managed and exploited species. This course provides an introduction to fisheries science and identifies the important features of tropical fisheries. Core elements will include methods used in assessing fish populations, the methods of fisheries science and their application in tropical environments and the importance of the biology of tropical marine species in regard to management strategies.

Learning Outcomes

• appraise the current status of Fisheries Science
• employ the basic concepts of the biology of fish stocks and assessment
• apply major analytical techniques in quantitative fisheries science
• evaluate the major features of the life cycles of fishes and invertebrates (especially those of commercial, recreational, and scientific importance) of shallow, tropical marine waters
• interpret and calculate yield estimates from fish stocks
• appraise the complexities of fisheries management
• evaluate no-take marine reserves as fisheries management tools
• demonstrate practical skills required for fisheries stock assessment
• use R programming to construct basic fisheries models

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (45%) - Individual
• Oral > Presentation 1 - (10%) - Individual
• Written > Research report - (25%) - Individual
• Written > Lab/Practical report - (20%) - 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 a good understanding of basic biological principles (eg BS1001) and marine systems (eg MB2050)

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  MB3310 MB5003

Availabilities