The course will discuss the sources of aquatic pollution. Toxic substances and oil pollution will be discussed. Nutrient input and eutrophication, and thermal pollution shall be highlighted. The course would also discuss global environmental change and the ocean.
Students are required to read research papers on current developments in aquaculture, paying particular attention to the methodology, presentation of results and discussions. The course offers students the opportunity to present seminars on the reading materials. Statistical packages used in contemporary research, and scientific writing will be discussed.
This course examines the various aquaculture systems, management practices and production levels. It also gives an overview of the status of aquaculture globally as well as in Ghana and other African countries. Harvesting, processing and marketing strategies of aquaculture products will be studied. Students will be taught how to prepare business plans and financial budgets for fish production, and record keeping. Various sources of funding and strategies for investment will be discussed.
Reproductive strategies of selected warm water finfish and shellfish will be examined and linked to the mass production of their seed for culture purposes. Students will study the techniques of hybridization and selective breeding, as well as monosex fish production. Hands-on activities will include spawning induction, artificial fertilization, and rearing. Stocking of ponds, cages and pens will be undertaken as well as evaluation of substrates for settlement of oyster spat. The control of species introductions and escape of farmed animals will be discussed.
The course presents a study of clinical diagnosis of bacterial, viral, fungal and other parasitic diseases of cultured species. The practical work will involve the isolation, culture and identification of the disease-causing organisms. Students will also study fouling agents and their effect on shellfish production. Formulation of corrective measures for the control of fish diseases and fouling agents will be examined.
This course involves an analysis of basic and applied aspects of warm water fish nutrition. Areas covered include nutrient requirement and metabolism, nutrient sources, nutrient chemistry, diet formulation and ration. Practical work will consist of preparation, administering and evaluation of feed including live feed. Students will be introduced to the use of statistical packages for evaluating quality of fish feeds.
A study of the biology of the commonly cultured finfish and shellfish species in tropical Africa is provided. The course begins with an introductory discussion of the attributes of cultivable species, followed by in-depth study of the morphology, anatomy, respiration, food and feeding habits, growth characteristics, and reproductive habits of selected species. Local examples of species with potential for culturing will also be considered. Emphasis will be placed on the relationship between the biological attributes and culture methods.
The course offers in-depth study of the neoconservative and conservative aspects of water in enclosures and other facilities for aquaculture. Students will also study the chemical, biological, and mechanical methods of maintaining and improving water quality in aquaculture. The possible causes and prevention of pollution of aquaculture systems as well as by the systems will be discussed.
This course examines the principles and practices in the selection of sites for aquaculture, surveying and mapping of pond sites, and techniques of pond construction. The use of ponds, cages, pens, tanks, raceways and other facilities for fish production as well as aquarium fisheries are discussed. Students will have a practical experience of constructing and mounting holding facilities for both finfish and shellfish. The process of land acquisition in Ghana, and tenure are also discussed.
