Courses of Study

1.) Differentiate among freshwater, brackish water, and saltwater ecosystems.

• Identifying chemical, geological, and physical features of aquatic ecosystems

2.) Relate geological and hydrological phenomena and fluid dynamics to aquatic systems.

3.) Explain the importance of biogeochemical cycles in an aquatic environment.

4.) Determine important properties and content of water as related to aquaculture.

Examples: turbidity, pH, pollutants, dissolved oxygen, high specific heat, density, temperature

• Describing the influence of water quality on aquaculture

Examples: aquatic plant control, water quality management, recognition and correction of oxygen deficiency, pH control

• Identifying sources of aquatic pollution

Examples: point and nonpoint pollution, volcanic ash, waste disposal

• Describing methods of reclaiming waste water and polluted water

Examples: settling ponds; hydroponics; irrigation water; chemical additives; mechanical, biological, and chemical filtering systems

5.) Identify the genotype and phenotype for specific characteristics in aquatic animals resulting from selective breeding.

Examples: disease-resistant fish, rapid maturation rates

• Explaining the importance of anatomy and physiology in aquaculture

Examples: body systems, internal and external anatomy of a fish, basic structure of an oyster

6.) Describe adaptations that allow organisms to exist in specific aquatic environments.

7.) Describe processes and environmental characteristics that affect growth rates of aquatic animals.

Examples: reproductive habits, feeding habits, interdependence of organisms, overcrowding, seasonal changes

8.) Determine effects of the fishing industry on the aquatic environment.

Examples: aquaculture, overfishing

• Describing basic principles involved in fish production

• Explaining various methods of pond preparation, predator control, and species management

• Explaining harvesting techniques and methods of transporting fish to market

9.) Describe various structures and equipment used in growing aquacrops.

Examples: open ponds, cages, raceways, tanks, silos

• Determining the suitability of habitat construction for aquaculture

• Identifying biological concerns in a recirculating or closed system

10.) Describe the control of disease and pests in aquatic environments.

Examples: pathogenic microspecies, parasites, predators, trash fish