Murdoch University has teamed up with Fremantle TAFE to offer Murdoch Marine Science students the opportunity to learn about mariculture.

Mariculture (marine aquaculture) is one of the major growth areas for marine science with the value of 1998/99 production in Australia being $604 million and projected to grow to $2,500 million by 2009/10.

The intensive twelve-day course will cover all marine groups that may be farmed in the near future including fish, crustaceans, algae and molluscs.

Associate Professor Michael Borowitzka said the course provided opportunities for Murdoch students to learn about this important and relevant aspect of the sustainable utilisation and management of marine resources.

“The collaboration with Fremantle TAFE enables students to gain immediate hands-on experience in mariculture, giving them a practical insight to the industry,” he said.