An aquaculturist is involved in harvesting, marketing and conservation of marine life, both aquatic animals and plants. His job is not limited to fresh water organisms but also salt water organisms. The common marine organisms handled by an aquaculturist are fish and shellfish. He is responsible for farming or breeding these animals. He has the responsibility of maintaining the population of these aquatic organisms. He is also tasked to plan production, monitor diseases, purchase and maintain equipments. An aquaculturist also helps the local fishermen to manage fisheries. The love for marine life and the environment may be a door way for a career in aquaculture.
How to become an Aquaculturist
To become an aquaculturist, one has to have a background in biology, marine science, business and communication. It is best that one get a bachelor’s degree in fish and wildlife biology, environmental science and other related field. This way, one can have a better chance of getting employment. One also has to get certified or licensed. It is a must that an aspiring aquaculturist be excellent in communication, business and administration. Being computer literate is also required.
Aquaculturist Courses, training, programs
It is best that while one gets formal education he can get hand-on training too. Be it in a hatchery or a pet shop, one will be able to benefit from learning to apply theories learned into practice. Training programs that focus on marine and biological sciences help the aspiring aqua culturist in managing and maintaining hatcheries or fisheries. While business and administration programs prepare one with the marketing and production side of the industry.
TOP 5 colleges/Universities
Harvard University
Cornell University
University of Miami
University of California-Santa Barbara
University of California-Berkely
Aquaculturist Jobs, opportunities, salaries/pay
An aquaculturist may be employed in fish farms owned by corporations, the government or fish farmer . He may be hired as a technician or fish biologist but eventually may move up to management level. Still, some may be hired in administrative positions. Getting a certification will help one move up the career ladder. An individual may earn from $29,515 to $36,875 annually as an aquaculturist.