Applied zoology refers to the practical application of principles and knowledge from the field of zoology to address real-world problems and challenges. It involves the utilization of scientific research and findings about animals to benefit human society, the environment, and other organisms.

List of Sub-Topics in Applied Zoology:

• Introduction
• Scope of Study
• Importance of Study
• Applications and Future Development
• Conclusion
• Related Topics

Biology is a branch of science which studies living beings that all plants and animals including humans. It is a word derived from Greek words (Greek: bios = life; logos = study). No one can say when the study of biology exactly began but Greeks can be considered as the pioneer of an organized study of this branch of science. Botany is the scientific study of plants, including their structure, growth, reproduction, metabolism, evolution, ecology, and interactions with the environment. It is a branch of biology that encompasses a wide range of topics related to plant life, from the molecular and cellular levels to the ecosystem and global scales. In this article we shall discuss scope and importance of applied zoology.

Zoology is the branch of biology that focuses on the scientific study of animals. It encompasses a wide range of topics related to the biology, behaviour, evolution, ecology, physiology, and classification of animals, from microscopic organisms to large mammals. Zoologists study various aspects of animal life, including their anatomy, genetics, development, reproduction, and interactions with their environments. It plays a crucial role in advancing scientific knowledge, informing conservation efforts, and promoting stewardship of the Earth’s biodiversity.

Applied zoology refers to the practical application of principles and knowledge from the field of zoology to address real-world problems and challenges. It involves the utilization of scientific research and findings about animals to benefit human society, the environment, and other organisms. Applied zoology encompasses various subdisciplines and applications, including:

Scope of the Study of Applied Zoology:

The scope of applied zoology encompasses a wide range of practical applications that utilize principles and knowledge from the field of zoology to address real-world problems and challenges. Here are some key areas within the scope of applied zoology:

• Conservation Biology: Applied zoologists work to conserve and manage wildlife populations, habitats, and ecosystems. They develop strategies for species conservation, habitat restoration, and protected area management to mitigate threats such as habitat loss, pollution, climate change, and poaching.
• Wildlife Management: Applied zoologists manage populations of wild animals for sustainable use and conservation. They develop policies, regulations, and management plans for hunting, fishing, trapping, and wildlife tourism to maintain ecological balance, prevent conflicts with humans, and preserve biodiversity.
• Veterinary Medicine: Applied zoologists in veterinary medicine diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases and injuries in domestic and wild animals. They provide medical care to companion animals, livestock, zoo animals, and wildlife, as well as conduct research on animal health, welfare, and infectious diseases.
• Animal Husbandry: Applied zoologists in animal husbandry breed, raise, and manage domesticated animals for food, fibre, labor, and companionship. They optimize animal welfare, nutrition, reproduction, and genetics to improve productivity, profitability, and sustainability in livestock farming, aquaculture, and poultry production.
• Entomology: Applied entomologists study insects and their interactions with humans, plants, and animals. They develop integrated pest management (IPM) strategies for controlling insect pests in agriculture, forestry, public health, and urban environments while minimizing environmental impacts.
• Zoo and Aquarium Management: Applied zoologists in zoo and aquarium management manage captive animal populations and provide educational and recreational experiences for visitors. They design and maintain animal exhibits, develop enrichment programs, conduct research on animal behavior and welfare, and participate in conservation breeding programs for endangered species.
• Animal Behavior and Welfare: Applied zoologists study and improve the well-being of animals in various settings. They investigate animal cognition, emotions, and social interactions and develop guidelines and standards for ethical treatment and care of animals in research, agriculture, entertainment, and captivity.
• Environmental Impact Assessment: Applied zoologists contribute to environmental impact assessments (EIAs) by studying the effects of human activities on wildlife and ecosystems. They conduct surveys, monitor populations, and assess ecological risks to inform land-use planning, infrastructure development, and natural resource management decisions.

The scope of applied zoology is vast and multidisciplinary, encompassing a wide range of practical applications aimed at promoting the responsible stewardship of animals and their habitats while addressing societal needs and challenges. Applied zoologists play a critical role in bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and practical solutions for conserving biodiversity, ensuring animal welfare, and promoting sustainable development.

Importance of Study of Applied Zoology:

The study of applied zoology holds significant importance for several reasons:

• Wildlife Conservation: Applied zoology contributes to the conservation of wildlife populations, habitats, and ecosystems. By studying animal behavior, ecology, and genetics, applied zoologists develop conservation strategies to mitigate threats such as habitat loss, pollution, climate change, and poaching, thereby preserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance.
• Sustainable Wildlife Management: Applied zoology plays a crucial role in managing populations of wild animals for sustainable use and conservation. By developing policies, regulations, and management plans for hunting, fishing, trapping, and wildlife tourism, applied zoologists ensure that wildlife resources are utilized responsibly, preventing overexploitation and preserving ecosystems for future generations.
• Animal Health and Welfare: Applied zoology in veterinary medicine focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases and injuries in animals. Veterinary professionals provide medical care to companion animals, livestock, zoo animals, and wildlife, contributing to animal welfare, public health, and the prevention of zoonotic diseases.
• Livestock Production and Agriculture: Applied zoology plays a vital role in animal husbandry by optimizing the breeding, nutrition, reproduction, and management of domesticated animals for food, fibre, and labor. By improving animal health, productivity, and welfare, applied zoologists enhance the efficiency, profitability, and sustainability of livestock farming, aquaculture, and poultry production.
• Pest Management and Crop Protection: Applied entomologists study insects and develop integrated pest management (IPM) strategies for controlling insect pests in agriculture, forestry, public health, and urban environments. By minimizing the use of chemical pesticides and adopting eco-friendly pest control methods, applied zoologists help protect crops, forests, and human health while preserving biodiversity and ecosystem services.
• Conservation Education and Outreach: Applied zoologists in zoo and aquarium management provide educational and recreational experiences for visitors, raising awareness about wildlife conservation, animal behavior, and ecological issues. By designing engaging exhibits, developing educational programs, and conducting outreach activities, applied zoologists inspire public interest in nature and promote conservation stewardship.
• Environmental Impact Assessment: Applied zoologists contribute to environmental impact assessments (EIAs) by studying the effects of human activities on wildlife and ecosystems. By conducting surveys, monitoring populations, and assessing ecological risks, applied zoologists provide valuable information to inform land-use planning, infrastructure development, and natural resource management decisions.

The study of applied zoology is essential for addressing pressing environmental and societal challenges related to wildlife conservation, animal health and welfare, food security, and sustainable development. Applied zoologists play a critical role in bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and practical solutions for promoting the responsible stewardship of animals and their habitats.

Applications and Future Development in Applied Zoology:

The field of applied zoology encompasses a diverse range of practical applications that utilize principles and knowledge from zoology to address real-world problems and challenges. Here are some key applications and potential future developments in applied zoology:

• Wildlife Conservation and Management: Applied zoologists play a crucial role in conserving and managing wildlife populations, habitats, and ecosystems. Future developments may involve the use of advanced monitoring techniques, such as remote sensing, GPS tracking, and genetic analysis, to assess population dynamics, habitat use, and genetic diversity in threatened and endangered species. Additionally, there may be increased emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches that integrate ecological, social, and economic factors into conservation planning and decision-making processes.
• Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health: Applied zoologists in veterinary medicine diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases and injuries in domestic and wild animals. Future developments may include the use of cutting-edge technologies, such as gene editing, stem cell therapy, and personalized medicine, to improve diagnosis, treatment, and management of animal diseases. There may also be increased focus on One Health approaches that recognize the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
• Sustainable Agriculture and Pest Management: Applied zoologists develop integrated pest management (IPM) strategies for controlling insect pests and other agricultural pests while minimizing environmental impacts. Future developments may involve the use of biocontrol agents, such as predators, parasitoids, and pathogens, as alternatives to chemical pesticides. There may also be increased emphasis on agroecological approaches that promote biodiversity, soil health, and ecosystem resilience in agricultural landscapes.
• Aquaculture and Fisheries Management: Applied zoologists contribute to the sustainable management of aquatic resources through aquaculture and fisheries management. Future developments may include the use of selective breeding, genomic selection, and biotechnological interventions to improve the productivity, resilience, and sustainability of aquaculture species. There may also be increased focus on ecosystem-based approaches that consider the interactions between aquaculture operations and natural ecosystems.
• Zoo and Aquarium Science: Applied zoologists in zoo and aquarium science manage captive animal populations and provide educational and recreational experiences for visitors. Future developments may involve the use of immersive technologies, such as virtual reality and augmented reality, to enhance visitor engagement and education. There may also be increased emphasis on conservation breeding programs for endangered species and the development of ex situ conservation strategies to complement in situ conservation efforts.
• Ecotourism and Wildlife Tourism: Applied zoologists contribute to the development and management of ecotourism and wildlife tourism initiatives that promote conservation and sustainable use of natural resources. Future developments may include the use of geo-tourism, community-based tourism, and citizen science initiatives to engage tourists in conservation activities and contribute to local livelihoods and environmental stewardship.

The future of applied zoology is characterized by ongoing innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a commitment to addressing pressing environmental and societal challenges. By harnessing the latest advances in science and technology, applied zoologists can continue to make significant contributions to wildlife conservation, animal health, sustainable agriculture, and responsible stewardship of natural resources.

Conclusion:

The study of applied zoology encompasses a wide range of practical applications that utilize principles and knowledge from the field of zoology to address real-world problems and challenges. The scope of applied zoology is diverse, covering areas such as wildlife conservation, veterinary medicine, sustainable agriculture, aquaculture, zoo and aquarium science, and ecotourism.

Applied zoologists play a crucial role in conserving and managing wildlife populations, habitats, and ecosystems, thereby preserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. They in veterinary medicine diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases and injuries in animals, contributing to animal health, welfare, and public health. Applied zoologists develop strategies for sustainable agriculture and aquaculture, including integrated pest management, selective breeding, and ecosystem-based approaches that promote biodiversity and environmental sustainability. They engage in education and outreach activities, raising awareness about wildlife conservation, animal behaviour, and environmental issues, and inspiring public interest in nature and conservation stewardship. Applied zoology contributes to the economic and social well-being of communities through activities such as wildlife tourism, aquaculture, and ecotourism, which support local livelihoods and contribute to environmental stewardship.

In summary, the study of applied zoology is essential for addressing pressing environmental and societal challenges, promoting the responsible stewardship of animals and their habitats, and ensuring the sustainable use and conservation of natural resources for future generations. By bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and practical solutions, applied zoologists can make significant contributions to wildlife conservation, animal health, sustainable development, and the well-being of society as a whole.

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Fishes are rich in protein, vitamins and mineral salts and are also known as valuable protective food. Fish forms an important item of the diet in many parts of the world. The development of fisheries is, therefore, one of the most promising industry. India has a coastline of about 8,129 km, 5 million km of the continental shelf and 2.02 million of an exclusive economic zone. India is a major marine fish producer and ranks seventh in the world.

The term fishery is used for catching, processing, fish farming and marketing of fish and other aquatic animals. The fishery includes fishes, prawns, lobsters, edible oysters, mussels, and crabs. Areas where fish are reared commercially, are known as artificial fisheries. The fishes are bred, reared and later harvested. The fishery may be a natural water body or an artificial one. A variety of fish may be reared together.

Types of Fisheries:

Depending on the nature of water in which fish is reared, fisheries are divided into three categories:

Marine Fisheries:

Marine fisheries include fishing operations along the sea coasts. The main varieties obtained in marine fisheries are Herpedon (Bombay duck बोंबील), rastrelliger (mackerels बांगडा), stromateus (pomfrets पापलेट), salmons, sardinella (sardines पडवा / वाशी /टारली), sharks (मुशी), and catfish (शिंगाडा).

Fresh Water Fisheries or inland Fisheries:

Freshwater fisheries include fish found in rivers, irrigation canals, reservoirs, lakes, dams, tanks, and ponds. The main varieties obtained in freshwater fisheries are carp fishes (labeo rohita (Rohu) तांबडा मासा, Catla काळा मासा, cirrhina (mirgala) मिऱ्या / मिरगा). Carp fishes are herbivorous. Catfishes (Mystus, Hilsa पाला, Bombay duck). Catfishes are carnivorous. Gourami, and Gambusia (omnivorous).

Estuarine or Brackish Water Fisheries:

They operate in estuaries (where river water and seawater get mixed), delta channels, backwaters, lagoons, and coastal lakes. Estuarine fish are more common in Bengal and Kerala. The tidal water collects the fish in the enclosures. The main varieties are Pearl spot, Milkfish, and Mullet.

Economic Importance of Fishes:

• Fish as food: Fish is a valuable and cheap source of food that is rich in proteins. Fish proteins are easily digestible.
• Medicinal use: Fish liver (shark liver and cod liver) oil is a natural source of vitamin A, C and Vitamin D.
• Industrial use: Body oils of sardines, herrings and salmons are used for the manufacture of edible oils and margarine. The oil obtained from fishes is used in soap, paint, and varnish industries.
• Feed for farm animals: Fish meal (dried fish) provides proteins to farm animals.
• Agricultural use: Fishes and fish wastes are used as organic manure in the fields.
• Adhesive: Skins and bones of fishes are also used in making high-quality glues and adhesives.
• Use of shark skin: Sharkskin is also used in the manufacture of handbags, wallets, shoes, etc. after tanning. Hide (leather) is also used to make parchment sheets. Sharkskin is abrasive and is called shagreen. It is used for smoothening surfaces for polishing.
• Generate employment: Fishery provides good job opportunity and self-employment for many people.

Commercial Fisheries:

Aquaculture:

Aquaculture involves the rearing and management of useful aquatic plant and animal resources such as fish and shellfish, (prawn, molluscs, crabs, etc.).It is also known as fish farming.  Aquaculture provides employment to many people. Culturing certain fishes in ponds, lakes, and reservoirs is a common practice in most of the areas of the world, which boost the productivity and economy of the nation. China leads all countries in aquaculture production. In aquaculture, there is no requirement of nutrients from an outside source. The main aim is to obtain a number of economically important substances. Aquaculture is utilized for culturing pearls on a commercial scale

Pisciculture (Fish Farming):

It is concerned with the production of edible fish in lakes, rivers, large ponds, canals. In Pisciculture young fishes are reared in nursery ponds, transferred to lakes or rivers and finally harvested as fish for table food. Fish farms range from simple ponds or flooded rice fields to highly engineered hatcheries in which the environment is monitored and kept under control. It includes the removal of almost all possible harmful conditions. It helps fish to flourish and grow fast. Fishes are provided with proper nutrients as per a regulated plan. The main aim is to obtain a good yield for consumption as a food.

Pond culture (Kitchen Fisheries):

This involves culturing fish in small ponds. This practice is quite common in Bengal. Proper management is carried on till fish attains full size. They are also protected from diseases.

Molluscs Culture:

Mariculture is a specialized branch of aquaculture involving the cultivation of marine organisms for food and other products in the open ocean, an enclosed section of the ocean, or in tanks, ponds or raceways which are filled with seawater. Molluscs are usually cultivated in their natural habitat without any addition of feed. As filter-feeders, they contribute to water cleanness by removing sediments and unwanted nutrients. Molluscs comprising oysters, clams, mussels, squids, cuttlefish, octopus, etc. form important resources of food are cultivated by this method.

Examples: edible oyster (Crassostrea species), Mussels (Perna species), Clams (Meretrin species, Arca species, Donax species, Circa gibba, Solen species, cardium species), Cuttlefish (Sepia species), Squid (Loligo species). Octopus are all utilized as a food resource. Pearl oysters, the sacred ehank, Turbo, Trochus and windowpane oysters (Placenta placenta) are all of commercial importance.

Sea Weeds:

Seaweeds are used for human consumption as cattle and poultry feed, as manure and for industrial purpose as a source of agar-agar, and algin. Species of Gelidiella and Gracilaria (the red seaweeds) are the source for the manufacture of agar-agar. The brown seaweeds like Sargassum, Turbinaria Dictyota contains alginic acid. Ulva, Entromorphas, Caulerpa, Porphyra are varieties used in human food.

Biology > Animal Husbandry > Fisheries and Pisciculture

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