The researcher is involved in the study of aquatic species, their environment and the equipment and procedures needed, for maintenance and production of these organisms. The researcher’s work should result in increased knowledge of the life and environment of aquatic species. researchers in aquaculture may work in the:
Study of the adaptability and conditions for the culture of specific organisms
Study of the genetic makeup
Study of the reproduction and control of reproduction
Study of nutritional requirements and metabolic implications
Measurements of growth rates and prediction of growth
Researchers may also:
Provide assessments for decision makers or politicians involved in regulating the sector
Publish scientific papers in international journals
Act as referees for the assessment of scientific articles or research projects
Relation to Aquaculture
Within the aquaculture sector, the researcher studies the reproduction, nutrition, growth and health of the aquatic species. He/she may study the water conditions and variations, in relation to their effect on the species concerned. The researcher is concerned with finding the best technologies for growth and maintenance of the aquatic species. Aquaculture research can involve studies into consumer preferences, future trends and economic projections for the sector or for a local industry. For example, researchers in aquaculture perform:
Assessment and research into dietary composition and materials
Studies on the pathologies and pathogens of aquatic organisms, their immunological traits and disease prevention
Site and conditions assessment for new aquaculture sites
Design of water recirculating systems, control of water quality and water variables, sensors and operating control systems.
Design of sea cages and sea structures for fish farms
Study of the influences of wind, water dynamics, and fowling organisms on the above structures
Design and implementation of automatic sensors and operating systems to control intervention on organism stocks, feeding systems, growth.
Design of the assessment procedures for productivity and commercial success in aquatic farming systems
Studies of statistics for the consumption of aquatic products and public preferences
Research on the economy of production
If you would like specific information on the qualifications necessary to become certified as a researcher, please click the ‘occupational profile’ link.”
If you would like to read an interview with a researcher, please click the ‘case study’ link.