Fish Biology – Online Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Fish Biology

Overview of ichthyology

Importance of fish in aquatic ecosystems

Classification of fishes

Evolution and diversity of fish species

Fish anatomy: external vs internal features

Module 2: Fish Taxonomy & Classification

Principles of fish taxonomy

Major fish groups: Agnatha, Chondrichthyes, Osteichthyes

Diagnostic features of each group

Identification methods and key taxonomic tools

Modern molecular techniques in fish classification

Module 3: Morphology & Anatomy of Fishes

External morphology: fins, scales, coloration

Internal anatomy: digestive system, circulatory system, nervous system

Sensory organs: lateral line, vision, olfaction, electroreception

Reproductive anatomy and sexual dimorphism

Module 4: Fish Physiology

Respiration & gill function

Osmoregulation in freshwater vs marine fishes

Thermoregulation and metabolism

Circulation & heart function

Hormonal regulation and growth

Module 5: Fish Ecology & Behavior

Habitat preferences and adaptations

Feeding ecology and trophic levels

Predator–prey interactions

Schooling, migration & social behavior

Fish communication and sensory cues

Module 6: Fish Nutrition & Feeding

Nutritional requirements of fish

Types of fish diets (carnivorous, herbivorous, omnivorous)

Feeding strategies in wild and cultured species

Digestive physiology

Module 7: Fish Reproduction & Life Cycle

Types of reproduction: oviparous, viviparous, ovoviviparous

Spawning behaviors

Larval development and growth stages

Factors affecting reproduction

Parental care strategies

Module 8: Fish Genetics & Biotechnology

Fundamentals of fish genetics

Chromosomal manipulation

Hybridization in fish

Genetically improved fish varieties

Applications of biotechnology in aquaculture

Module 9: Fish Diseases & Health Management

Common bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic diseases

Diagnosis and symptoms

Preventive health management

Treatment strategies and biosecurity

Environmental stressors

Module 10: Fish Conservation & Fisheries Management

Threats to fish biodiversity

Conservation approaches and sustainable strategies

Fish population dynamics

Fishery regulations and ethical practices

Climate change impacts on fish

Module 11: Aquaculture Basics (Bonus Module)

Introduction to aquaculture systems

Cage culture, pond culture, RAS

Fish breeding and hatchery management

Feed management and water quality

Harvesting and post-harvest handling

Module 12: Practical Applications & Case Studies

Species identification workshop

Fish dissection demonstration

Behavior observation exercises

Case studies on conservation and aquaculture

Real-time lab and field examples

Final Assessment

MCQs and final quiz

Short descriptive questions

Practical activity submission

Project on fish species profile or ecological study