Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to design, construct and maintain aquascapes for a range of aquaria, including ponds, waterfalls and water features.
This unit applies to individuals working in the companion animal industry sector where aquascapes are designed, constructed and maintained for clients to house aquatic animals, such as fish, amphibians and some reptiles. These individuals analyse information and exercise judgement to complete a range of skilled activities and demonstrate deep knowledge in a specific technical area. They have accountability for the work of others and analyse, design and communicate solutions to a range of complex problems.
All work is carried out to comply with the design specifications of the aquascape.
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.
NOTE: The terms 'occupational health and safety' (OHS) and 'work health and safety' (WHS) generally have the same meaning in the workplace. In jurisdictions where the national model WHS legislation has not been implemented, RTOs must contextualise the unit of competency by referring to current OHS legislative requirements.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements | Performance Criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Identify client needs | 1.1 Discuss types of aquaria and proposed species to be housed with client 1.2 Identify location and climatic conditions affecting design 1.3 Confirm special installation and maintenance requirements with client 1.4 Advise client on suitability of species and location |
2. Prepare aquascape design | 2.1 Select appropriate heating, lighting and filtration according to design parameters 2.2 Select plants, features and substrate materials according to design parameters |
3. Establish aquascape | 3.1 Select and use tools, equipment and materials appropriate to the job, including personal protective equipment and WHS requirements 3.2 Establish substrate using appropriate materials 3.3 Install and secure aquascape features and plants 3.4 Conduct installation, testing and commissioning of lighting, heating and filtration systems according to manufactures requirements 3.5 Discuss ongoing maintenance requirements with client in preparation for handover 3.6 Collect, treat and dispose of or recycle waste from construction and installation according to workplace and environmental requirements 3.7 Clean worksite, tools and equipment and return to operating order and store according to WHS and workplace requirements |
4. Maintain aquascapes | 4.1 Conduct water sampling and testing according to species type and environmental requirements 4.2 Prove isolation of electrical equipment prior to maintenance using appropriate techniques, procedures and equipment 4.3 Carry out service and repairs according to manufactures specifications and workplace requirements 4.4 Monitor and report on health of aquaria and plants 4.5 Identify complex faults and refer for specialist advice and remedial action according to workplace requirements 4.6 Maintain accurate records according to workplace policies and procedures |
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential for performance in this unit of competency but are not explicit in the performance criteria.
Skill | Description |
Reading | Interpret plans, diagrams and specifications |
Numeracy | Calculate quantities of materials required to construct aquascapes Calculate costs of materials for construction of aquascape |
Sectors
Companion Animal Sector (CAS)