MI5003 - Diagnosis of Bacterial Diseases in Aquaculture

This subject will present the principles and concepts of the role of microbes in aquatic animal disease, specifically the pathogenesis of the major bacterial diseases affecting tropical aquatic animals in aquaculture settings. Through hands-on experience, the students will learn to identify and investigate clinical signs in the field and develop specialised knowledge regarding correct sampling procedures. The students will develop and plan procedures that will enable traceability in sample collection from pond to laboratory. The students will engage with classical laboratory diagnosis and anti-microbial resistance testing and critically analyse procedures and results to develop decision-making skills for correct diagnosis.

Learning Outcomes

• critically analyse and evaluate the role of disease in aquatic populations;
• develop advanced knowledge of the main tropical aquatic animal bacteria;
• integrate knowledge of specific disease characteristics and clinical signs into a plan for sample collection in the field;
• autonomously formulate detailed plans for safely conducting laboratory diagnostic procedures to identify pathogenic bacteria;
• critically interpret diagnostic results and relate them to clinical signs;
• design sure transport and storage plans for diagnostic samples which enable accurate sample analysis.

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination - In class - (55%) - Individual
• Written > Literature review - (20%) - Group
• Performance/Practice/Product > Practical assessment/practical skills demonstration - (25%) - Group.

Special Assessment Requirements

Attempt all summative on-course assessment and achieve an overall percentage of 50% or more on each in class examination as well as an overall percentage of 50% or more; Attend all practical sessions, workshops, tutorials and field trips unless a valid medical reason or exceptional circumstance presents itself and documentation is provided.

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.