BIOL8831 Aquaculture Reproduction GE

The topic deals with advanced reproductive biology and applied genetics of fish and other aquacultured species such as molluscs and crustaceans. Students will gain a fundamental understanding of the complex interplay of environmental, physiological and genetic factors that influence reproductive development in a variety of aquacultured species. This topic delivers advanced knowledge of the genetic characterisation of wild and domesticated fish stocks and the applications of population genetics techniques. The topic will also cover the cut-edge techniques and technologies used by aquaculturists to manage and manipulate broodstock, gametes, embryonic and larval stages to maximise productivity.

This topic aims to:

• Provide students with an advanced understanding of the physiological and environmental factors affecting broodstock conditioning, spawning, hatching and larval rearing in aquaculture species
• Apply advanced management practices to monitor and control breeding of species under captivity
• Understand the impact of genetic factors on aquaculture-relevant outcomes at a high level
• Apply advanced genetic tools in characterising, managing and enhancing the genetic basis of commercially important stocks of aquatic species
• Foster advanced skills in laboratory practicals, writing reports and ability to critically analyse aquaculture literature

1. Manage hatchery operations including hatchery planning, spawning, hatching and larval rearing at an advanced level
2. Demonstrate an advanced ability to apply genetic knowledge to the management of wild and cultured stocks of aquatic organisms
3. Identify and solve practical issues with the advanced knowledge from literature