Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to introduce a new aquatic species that has not been previously cultured in the workplace. It includes the ability to research information on new target species, condition broodstock, rear larvae, and analyse and record data.
This unit applies to individuals who have specialised knowledge and technical and/or management responsibility for the breeding program and hatchery operations within an aquaculture setting.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements | Performance Criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Assess the validity of new target species | 1.1 Research and document existing life history, traits and spawning cues of target species from a range of sources 1.2 Research optimal environmental conditions and nutritional requirements for target species from a range of sources 1.3 Investigate and estimate production costs for target species at all life stages 1.4 Undertake target species market evaluation, considering demand and projected sales 1.5 Prepare cost estimate and analysis of infrastructure modifications required to produce new species 1.6 Collate all information and present a business case for culturing new species to key stakeholders 1.7 Make decisions on validity of target species culture potential and size of trial based on feedback from key individuals |
2. Culture new aquaculture species | 2.1 Acquire and condition broodstock to meet workplace objectives 2.2 Implement and monitor optimal conditions for spawning 2.3 Target offspring of species for production 2.4 Rear larvae in optimal larval rearing culture conditions according to workplace procedures 2.5 Move post larvae to adequate growout facilities 2.6 Grow post larvae in optimal growout conditions 2.7 Harvest and sell new species according to customer requirements and workplace sales plan |
3. Record and analyse relevant data | 3.1 Record data gathered from production and monitoring procedures and sales 3.2 Analyse and report all data against pre-determined standards and criteria 3.3 Report and present data and results to relevant stakeholders 3.4 Make decisions around the future validity of the culture species |
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential for performance in this unit of competency but are not explicit in the performance criteria.
Skill | Description |
Reading | Researches and extracts environmental and biological information relating to culturing target species from a range of technical information Analyses business plans and sales targets |
Writing | Prepares reports and presentations using workplace formats and technical information to support a business case Maintains operational and financial records |
Numeracy | Quantifies resource requirements and calculates costs associated with culturing a new species Analyses data to determine potential and actual sales |
Oral communication | Participates in verbal exchanges to explain information clearly using language appropriate for the audience |
Navigate the world of work | Works independently and collectively within broad parameters, taking responsibility for plans, decisions and outcomes relating to culturing new species |
Interact with others | Liaises and consults collaboratively, influencing direction and taking a leadership role on occasion |
Get the work done | Plans, implements and coordinates multiple activities and resources, to effectively culture new aquaculture species Uses systematic, analytical processes to identify and solve problems and make decisions relating to culturing a new species Uses workplace digital systems and tools to access, record, analyse and present information and data relevant to culturing a new species |
Sectors
Aquaculture (AQU)