Aquatic Species Module

Specialist training for working with fish, frogs, and toads in research and aquaculture settings

Accredited & HPRA-Aligned

Our training meets all requirements under EU Directive 2010/63/EU and is recognised by the HPRA for individual authorisation.

Led by Experts in Welfare

Courses are developed and delivered by leading veterinarians, researchers, and animal ethics specialists with decades of experience.

Empowering Ethical Leadership

We go beyond compliance, equipping students and institutions with the knowledge and mindset to lead in humane, responsible animal research.

What is the Aquatic Species Module?

This online, self-paced module equips students and researchers with the knowledge required to ethically and competently work with aquatic species, specifically fish, frogs, and toads, across laboratory, seawater, freshwater, and aquaculture environments.

Combining species biology, welfare science, husbandry, and research ethics, this course places particular focus on the use of zebrafish as an experimental model in biomedical science. Participants will gain an understanding of stress, pain, and humane treatment in aquatic species, alongside practical insights into the handling of aquaria and farmed species.

Completion of this module, alongside the Core Module, satisfies HPRA requirements for individual authorisation involving aquatic animals.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Understand the biology and physiology of aquatic species used in research
Identify welfare issues specific to aquatic animals and their implications for research outcomes
Apply proper husbandry, environmental, and health management practices
Recognise and minimise stress, suffering, and pain in aquatic settings
Implement humane endpoints and euthanasia protocols for fish and amphibians

Course Topics Covered

Biology and physiology of fish and amphibians

Zebrafish as a biomedical research model

Welfare-sensitive aquaria management

Disease prevention and biosecurity

Handling and care of wild and farmed fish

Indicators of stress and poor welfare

Euthanasia techniques and humane endpoints

Who Should Take This Course?

Researchers working with zebrafish, amphibians, or other aquatic species
Students involved in biomedical or environmental research
Personnel working in aquaculture with experimental models
Anyone applying for HPRA individual authorisation involving aquatic animals

Course Fees

Aquatic Species Module: €250

Textbook Bundle (Optional): €85 + €5 P&P

You may already have access to these via your institution. If not, you can request delivery when registering.

Course FAQs

Our FAQs cover the most common queries, but if you need personalised advice, we're always happy to help.

Is this course self-paced?

Yes. This module is fully online, self-paced and can be started at any time.

Do I need to complete the Core Module first?

Yes. Both the Core Module and a species-specific module are required for HPRA authorisation.

How do I register?

Students can register and enrol themselves online using a credit card through our course application portal. Alternatively, you can contact us directly at sec@last-ireland.ie for other payment options or to arrange institutional or group enrolments.

Is there an exam?

Yes, you’ll complete online assessments to demonstrate understanding.

Does this qualify me for HPRA individual authorisation?

Yes, when completed with the Core Module, this module satisfies HPRA’s requirements.

Ready to Get Started?

The Aquatic Species Module is available now. This fully online course can be taken at your own pace, from anywhere.