Lesson 5 - Sustainability, Careers, and Shellfish Aquaculture

Sustainability in Aquaculture

The United Nations (UN) defines sustainability as "meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs". 

If done correctly, aquaculture can increase food production, reduce food insecurity, and can boost economic growth in coastal and rural areas. 

Careers in Aquaculture

• There are a wide range of interesting jobs available within Scotland’s aquaculture sector breeding, rearing and harvesting fish and shellfish species for consumption.
• Many of the tasks are done by farm workers, however, specialized work in areas such as stock health, veterinary practitioners, laboratory services and engineering usually have dedicated staff with higher skill levels.

Shellfish Aquaculture

Whilst salmon farming dominates the Scottish aquaculture industry, shellfish farming is also a thriving sector with species including mussels, Pacific oysters, native oysters, queen scallops and king scallops being produced.

Common or blue mussels are the main species, accounting for around 95% of the total shellfish production. 81% of all Scottish mussels are grown in Shetland