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Aquaculture is a growing field with various training opportunities, including courses in aquaculture technician, fish biologist, and aquaculture engineer. Some positions require a college degree, while others offer on-the-job training or short courses. Aquaculture training covers fish and shellfish biology, disease control, and practical aspects of running an aquatic farm. Students can gain hands-on experience at fish hatcheries and farms or through research internships and summer camps.
Aquaculture, or the controlled farming of aquatic species for human use, is a rapidly growing field with multiple opportunities for the aspiring student. The different types of aquaculture training often include courses in various industry disciplines including aquaculture technician, fish biologist, aquaculture engineer, aquaculture or hatchery manager, fish harvester, and fish and seafood processor. While some positions, such as a fish biologist or aquaculture engineer, may require a college degree, there are many other positions available in this field that offer on-the-job training or, at most, would require a short course in the fundamentals of aquaculture. These aquaculture training courses are available at many universities, community colleges and independent training facilities around the world.
Generally understood as the cultivation of fish, shrimp, molluscs, algae and other aquatic edibles for direct human consumption, aquaculture techniques are also used to replenish wild fish populations, supply sport fishing facilities, supply aquarium markets with exotic breeds and even grow pharmaceuticals. Many aquaculture training programs include a mix of classroom and hands-on, hands-on instruction. The classroom portion of the program generally covers the basics of fish and shellfish biology, the management of aquatic ecosystems, and the feeding and nutrition requirements of different species.
Other training topics can include disease control and safety issues, as well as the mechanics of modern aquatic farming practices. Agricultural aquaculture training can include classes in facility design, maintenance and troubleshooting, as well as practical aspects of record keeping and operational planning. Other training areas relevant to the aquaculture field may include business management, marketing, supply forecasting and computer skills.
In the practical application portion of the course, students will apply what they have learned in the classroom to a working aquaculture facility. Fish hatcheries, fish and shellfish farms, or university aquaculture research centers are common facilities that provide this type of practical aquaculture training. Students will learn the physical side of the industry, with training in the everyday aspects of running a modern aquatic farm. Tasks may include fish handling and harvesting techniques, feeding needs, cleaning and filtering, disease prevention, farm equipment use, care and repair, and safety issues.
Some aquaculture training programs include field work in marine environments such as the Florida Keys in the United States. Students looking for this type of training should generally apply for a research internship at a university with a strong aquaculture program. Many schools also offer summer camps that can expose a young student to the discipline and offer hands-on experience in the field to help guide further training plans.
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