Aquaculture Biologist Science & Engineering Professionals
SaveWhat Does an Aquaculture Biologist Do?
Aquaculture biologists apply knowledge gained from research about aquatic animals and plant life and their interactions with each other and the environment, in order to improve aquaculture production, prevent animal health and environmental problems and to provide solutions if necessary.
Resource recommendations may include affiliate links. Learn more
Where Do I Start?
Fish Biology
The study of fish, shellfish or crustacean organisms, categorized into many specialised fields that cover their morphology, physiology, anatomy, behaviour, origins and distribution.
Sign up to trackReady to go deeper? Pick up to 3 skills to focus on from the list below.
These are common skills for this role. Real-world experience matters more than ticking every box — use this as a guide, not a checklist.
Skills You Need to Become an Aquaculture Biologist
Essential Skills
Essential Skills
-
EssentialFish Biology knowledge
The study of fish, shellfish or crustacean organisms, categorized into many specialised fields that cover their morphology, physiology, anatomy, behaviour, origins and distribution.
Recommended Books
1 book -
EssentialVirology knowledge
The structure, characteristics, evolution and interactions of viruses and the diseases they cause.
No book recommendations available yet.
-
EssentialScientific Research Methodology knowledge
The theoretical methodology used in scientific research involving doing background research, constructing an hypothesis, testing it, analysing data and concluding the results.
-
EssentialBiotechnology In Aquaculture knowledge
Biotechnology and polymerase chain reactions for studies in sustainable aquaculture production methods.
-
EssentialBotany knowledge
The taxonomy or classification of plant life, phylogeny and evolution, anatomy and morphology, and physiology.
Recommended Books
2 books -
EssentialApplied Zoology knowledge
The science of applying animal anatomy, physiology, ecology, and behaviour in a particular practical context.
Recommended Books
1 bookThe Principles of Applied Zoology -
EssentialMicrobiology-Bacteriology knowledge
Microbiology-Bacteriology is a medical specialty mentioned in the EU Directive 2005/36/EC.
Recommended Books
1 book -
EssentialEcology knowledge
The study of how organisms interact and their relation to the ambient environment.
No book recommendations available yet.
-
EssentialMolecular Biology knowledge
The interactions between the various systems of a cell, the interactions between the different types of genetic material and how these interactions are regulated.
No book recommendations available yet.
-
EssentialPollution Prevention knowledge
The processes used to prevent pollution: precautions to pollution of the environment, procedures to counter pollution and associated equipment, and possible measures to protect the environment.
No book recommendations available yet.
-
EssentialFish Anatomy knowledge
The study of the form or morphology of fish species.
Recommended Books
1 book -
EssentialBiology knowledge
Tissues, cells, and functions of plant and animal organisms and their interdependencies and interactions with each other and the environment.
No book recommendations available yet.
-
EssentialBiosecurity knowledge
Be aware of the general principles of the concept of bio-security and in particular, the disease prevention rules to be implemented in case of epidemics endangering public health.
No book recommendations available yet.
-
EssentialLaboratory Techniques knowledge
Techniques applied in the different fields of natural science in order to obtain experimental data such as gravimetric analysis, gas chromatography, electronic or thermic methods.
No book recommendations available yet.
-
EssentialAquatic Species knowledge
The care and maintenance of aquatic biological species.
No book recommendations available yet.
-
EssentialAnalyse Work-Related Written Reports skill
Read and comprehend job-related reports, analyse the content of reports and apply findings to daily work operations.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialApply Scientific Methods skill
Apply scientific methods and techniques to investigate phenomena, by acquiring new knowledge or correcting and integrating previous knowledge.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialCarry Out Fish Disease Prevention Measures skill
Carry out disease prevention measures for fish, molluscs, and crustaceans for land-based and water-based aquaculture facilities.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialCollect Biological Data skill
Collect biological specimens, record and summarise biological data for use in technical studies, developing environmental management plans and biological products.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialControl Aquatic Production Environment skill
Assess the impact of biological conditions such as algae and fouling organisms by managing water intakes, catchments and oxygen use.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialGather Experimental Data skill
Collect data resulting from the application of scientific methods such as test methods, experimental design or measurements.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialImplement Scientific Decision Making In Healthcare skill
Implement scientific findings for evidence-based practice, integrating research evidence into decision making by forming a focused clinical question in response to a recognised information need, searching for the most appropriate …
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialKeep Task Records skill
Organise and classify records of prepared reports and correspondence related to the performed work and progress records of tasks.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialMonitor Water Quality skill
Measure water quality: temperature, oxygen, salinity, pH, N2, NO2,NH4, CO2, turbidity, chlorophyll. Monitor microbiological water quality.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialPerform Laboratory Tests skill
Carry out tests in a laboratory to produce reliable and precise data to support scientific research and product testing.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialPerform Scientific Research skill
Gain, correct or improve knowledge about phenomena by using scientific methods and techniques, based on empirical or measurable observations.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialConduct Fish Mortality Studies skill
Collect fish mortality data. Identify causes of mortality and provide solutions .
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialConduct Fish Populations Studies skill
Study captive fish populations to determine survival, growth, and migration.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialConduct Research On Fauna skill
Collect and analyse data about animal life in order to discover the basic aspects such as origin, anatomy, and function.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialConduct Research On Flora skill
Collect and analyse data about plants in order to discover their basic aspects such as origin, anatomy, and function.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialConserve Natural Resources skill
Protect waters and natural resources and coordinate actions. Work with environmental agencies and resource management personnel.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialDevelop Aquaculture Strategies skill
Cultivate strategies for aquaculture plans based on reports and research in order to deal with specific fish farm issues. Plan and organise work activities in order to improve aquaculture production …
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialFollow Safety Precautions In Fishery Operations skill
Comply with policies and institutional regulations to guarantee a safe workplace for employees in fishery and aquaculture operations. Deal with potential risks and dangers by taking appropriate safety measures.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialInspect Fish Stock skill
Collect and examine fish to evaluate the health of fish stock.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialPerform Field Research skill
Participate in field research and evaluation of state and private lands and waters.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialSend Biological Samples To Laboratory skill
Forward collected biological samples to the concerned laboratory, following strict procedures related to the labeling and tracking of the information on the samples.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
EssentialUse Specialised Equipment skill
Use specialised equipment such as electron microscope, telemetry, digital imaging analysis, global positioning systems, and computer modelling in studies and analyses of production methodology.
Course recommendations coming soon.
Optional Skills (5 of 55 displayed)
-
OptionalAnimal Welfare Legislation knowledge
The legal boundaries, codes of professional conduct, national and EU regulatory frameworks and legal procedures of working with animals and living organisms, ensuring their welfare and health.
Recommended Books
1 book -
OptionalFish Welfare Regulations knowledge
The set of rules that apply in fish harvesting methods which ensure fish well-being.
Recommended Books
1 book -
OptionalAssessment Of Risks And Threats knowledge
The security documentation and any security-related communications and information.
No book recommendations available yet.
-
OptionalFish Identification And Classification knowledge
The processes which allow the identification and classification of fish.
No book recommendations available yet.
-
OptionalPollution Legislation knowledge
Be familiar with European and National legislation regarding the risk of pollution.
No book recommendations available yet.
-
OptionalAdvise On Animal Welfare skill
Prepare and provide information to individuals or groups of people on how to promote the health and well-being of animals, and how risks to animal health and welfare may be …
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalCarry Out Internet Research skill
Execute efficient search on the internet in order to gather relevant information and share it with others.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalCommunicate By Telephone skill
Liaise via telephone by making and answering calls in a timely, professional and polite manner.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalCommunicate In An Outdoor Setting skill
Communicate with participants in more than one language of the European Union; handle a crisis following guidelines and recognise the importance of proper behaviour in crisis situations.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalCommunicate In English In A Competent Way language skill
Competent use of English; R351refers to level C1 in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalCommunicate Verbal Instructions skill
Communicate transparent instructions. Ensure that messages are understood and followed correctly.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalCoordinate Operational Activities skill
Synchronise activities and responsibilities of the operational staff to ensure that the resources of an organisation are used most efficiently in pursuit of the specified objectives.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalDeliver Online Training skill
Provide training by using online technologies, adapting the learning materials, using e-learning methods and communicating online. Instruct virtual classrooms.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalDiscuss Research Proposals skill
Discuss proposals and projects with researchers, decide on resources to allocate and whether to move forward with the study.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalMonitor Fish Mortality Rates skill
Monitor fish mortalities and assess possible causes.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalPrepare Visual Data skill
Prepare charts and graphs in order to present data in a visual manner.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalPreserve Fish Samples For Diagnosis skill
Collect and preserve larval, fish and mollusc samples or lesions for diagnosis by fish disease specialists.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalProvide On-Site Training In Aquaculture Facilities skill
Provide on-site training in aquaculture facilities, through instruction and demonstration of skills. Provide, implement and supervise a training development plan.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalReport Analysis Results skill
Produce research documents or give presentations to report the results of a conducted research and analysis project, indicating the analysis procedures and methods which led to the results, as well …
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalReport Pollution Incidents skill
Examine the extent of the damage and consequences when an incident causes pollution, and report it to the relevant institution following pollution reporting procedures.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalScreen Live Fish Deformities skill
Screen for deformities in live fish including larvae
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalSeek Innovation In Current Practices skill
Search for improvements and present innovative solutions, creativity and alternative thinking to develop new technologies, methods or ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalSpeak Different Languages skill
Master foreign languages to be able to communicate in one or more foreign languages.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalUse Different Communication Channels skill
Make use of various types of communication channels such as verbal, handwritten, digital and telephonic communication with the purpose of constructing and sharing ideas or information.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalWrite Research Proposals skill
Synthetise and write proposals aiming to solve research problems. Draft the proposal baseline and objectives, the estimated budget, risks and impact. Document the advances and new developments on the relevant …
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalWrite Routine Reports skill
Compose routine reports; identify appropriate forms or documents to record data from manual inspections and/or electronic systems. Write clear observations as required. A written report is usually a summary of …
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalWrite Work-Related Reports skill
Compose work-related reports that support effective relationship management and a high standard of documentation and record keeping. Write and present results and conclusions in a clear and intelligible way so …
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalAdapt Communication Style According To Recipient skill
Adapt communication style to that of the recipient of the message in order to create a rapport.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalAdminister Treatments To Fish skill
Administer treatments to fish, including vaccination of fish by immersion and injection, continually monitoring fish for signs of stress.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalAnalyse Fish Samples For Diagnosis skill
Analyse samples or lesions from farmed aquatic species for professional diagnosis and treatments.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalApply Risk Management Processes skill
Identify risk and apply a risk management process, e.g. hazard analysis and critical control points (HACCP).
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalAssess Environmental Impact In Aquaculture Operations skill
Measure the environmental impact of a company's aquaculture operations. Take into account factors such as quality of the sea and surface water, fish and sea plant habitats and risks regarding …
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalAssess Fish Health Condition skill
Identify and prepare fish condition for the safe application of treatments.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalCollect Fish Samples For Diagnosis skill
Collect fish and shellfish samples for diagnosis by fish diseases specialists.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalCommunicate Specialised Veterinary Information skill
Communicate the relevance of and the advances in the area of specialisation to general practice veterinarians and to non-veterinarians.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalCommunicate Technicalities With Clients skill
Communicate with and support clients and veterinarians in case of problems. Provide feedback to production and management.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalConduct Ecological Research skill
Conduct ecological and biological research in the field and in controlled conditions, using scientific methods and equipment.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalControl Fish Diseases skill
Identify the symptoms of fish diseases. Apply appropriate measures to treat or eliminate diagnosed conditions.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalCreate Training Materials skill
Develop and compile training items and resources according to didactical methods and training needs and using specific types of media.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalDevelop Aquaculture Breeding Strategies skill
Create and develop an aquaculture breeding strategy using a variety of techniques; naturally spawned fish eggs, induced spawning of fish eggs, environmental controlled spawning, hormonally regulated fish spawning, broodstock recruitment …
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalDevelop Fish Health And Welfare Management Plans skill
Develop a plan which lists risks from outdoor factors, such as predators, and pests.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalDevelop Management Plans skill
Develop management plans to maintain fisheries and habitat, or restore them when necessary.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalDevelop Management Plans To Reduce Risks In Aquaculture skill
Develop a management plan to reduce the risks from pests, predators and diseases. Supervise implementation of plan, especially disease prevention measures, throughout the aquaculture facility.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalDiagnose Aquatic Animals Disease Symptoms skill
Observe and describe symptoms and lesions of fish, molluscs, and crustaceans. Monitor abnormal fish behaviour in feeding, swimming, and surfacing.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalEnsure Animal Welfare In Slaughtering Practices skill
Respect the needs of livestock and apply the regulations regarding animal welfare in the meat and meat products manufacturing sector. Respond correctly to animal issues from unloading until stunning of …
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalHandle The Disposal Of Chemicals skill
Dispose of chemicals and treatments safely according to site waste management procedures.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalIdentify Risks In Aquaculture Facilities skill
Identify the hazards and evaluate the risks to health and safety in aquaculture facilities.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalInspect Animal Welfare Management skill
Monitor animal health and welfare management and husbandry, and analyse risk factors in relation to animal health, disease and welfare status.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalInterview Parties In Relation To Animal Welfare Investigations skill
Conduct interviews of suspects and witnesses in relation to cases of alleged breach of animal related legislation.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalMaintain Aquaculture Treatment Records skill
Provide accurate information to maintain records of treatments applied.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalMaintain Relationships With Animal Welfare Establishments skill
Ensure good relations with other animal welfare establishments and agencies.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalMonitor Treated Fish skill
Monitor treated fish to evaluate the effect of treatments.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalPrepare Fish Treatment Facilities skill
Prepare fish treatment facilities to effectively isolate contaminated fish during treatment. Control the application of treatments to avoid contaminating other stock, containers and the wider environment.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalPrepare Fish Treatment Plan skill
Prepare health treatment plans to meet specific fish disease requirements.
Course recommendations coming soon.
-
OptionalProvide Advice To Hatcheries skill
Provide recommendations for the installation and well functioning of hatcheries.
Course recommendations coming soon.