BIOL2731 Aquaculture Nutrition and Water Quality

The topic covers the biology and culture of live food organisms including algae, rotifers, cladocerans, copepods, Artemia that are used for aquaculture. The theory and practice of nutritional requirements (protein, lipid, carbohydrate, vitamins and minerals), aquaculture feed formulation and manufacture for a variety of aquatic species will be included. This topic teaches the impacts of the biological processes of aquatic organisms (photosynthesis, respiration, excretion of metabolites and biota/substratum interaction) upon water quality. It also covers technologies and approaches (aeration, buffering) to minimise the deleterious effects of these processes in various aquaculture systems. The topic extends to pond management through nutrient fertilisation and liming. Completion of this topic will enable students to understand the technology of green water culture, feed preparation, and feeding practices and water quality management in the culture of a variety of fish, mollusc and crustacean species.

This topic aims to:

• Provide students with detailed knowledge in the biology, morphology and function of live food species used in aquaculture including algae, rotifers, cladocerans, copepods and Artemia
• Deliver the technology for green water culture, feed formulation and manufacture
• Enable students to determine the nutritional requirements to maximise growth and minimise cost of aquacultured species
• Develop in understanding interactions between aquatic organisms and their living environments
• Develop analytical skills for testing water quality parameters
• Develop problem solving skills through the use of the current literature in the field of water quality management

It will also develop students' abilities in:

• Laboratory practical skills
• Laboratory report writing skills
• Independent learning skills from current literature through writing a essay

1. Manage live feed production and feed formulation for aquacultured organisms
2. Demonstrate ability and understanding in feeding management in any aquaculture operations
3. Manage water quality in intensive and extensive aquaculture systems for commercial enterprises