Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 8:58 PM AWST

Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.

Provide general care of invertebrates

Provide general care of invertebrates

Unit of competency
National Code
ACMSPE319
State Code
ODC36
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
13/04/2021
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
26/07/2021
Field of Education
050105 - Animal Husbandry
Original Release Date
26/07/2021
Nominal Hours
35
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to identify invertebrates and their behavioural and physical needs, and provide daily care requirements.This unit applies to individuals working in the animal care industry where it may be necessary to care for terrestrial, marine and freshwater invertebrates. This may include aquariums, pet shops, zoos, animal technology facilities or similar workplaces. The unit applies to individuals who work under broad supervision and provide and communicate solutions to a range of predictable problems.All work must be carried out to comply with workplace procedures according to Commonwealth and state/territory health and safety and animal welfare regulations, legislation and standards that apply to the workplace.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Identify invertebrates
  • 1.1 Identify key types of invertebrates using industry terminology
  • 1.2 Define the profile of invertebrates commonly housed in facility
  • 1.3 Identify external features using industry terminology
  • 1.4 Define, interpret and document colours, markings and other identifying features
2. Identify and evaluate behavioural and housing needs
  • 2.1 Monitor water quality and make adjustments as required to maintain optimum water quality appropriate for the species being housed, as directed by supervisor
  • 2.2 Identify indicators of animal comfort and normal behaviour
  • 2.3 Recognise signs of distressed invertebrates and report to supervisor
  • 2.4 Identify industry standards and guidelines for housing design, environmental factors and appropriate stocking densities
  • 2.5 Evaluate current animal housing design in relation to the welfare of animals kept and legislation requirements
  • 2.6 Implement behavioural enrichment activities for specific species
3. Catch, handle and restrain invertebrates
  • 3.1 Identify workplace health and safety risks associated with handling and restraining invertebrates
  • 3.2 Implement methods to minimise safety risks and use appropriate personal protective equipment
  • 3.3 Approach, catch and restrain invertebrates using low stress handling techniques and equipment to minimise risks to the animal and others
4. Assist with health care needs
  • 4.1 Identify signs of good health in invertebrates
  • 4.2 Report signs of disease or other conditions to supervisor
  • 4.3 Identify general health maintenance and preventative treatment procedures and implement according to level of job responsibility
5. Feed invertebrates
  • 5.1 Identify digestive system features and relate to species-specific feeding routines and diets
  • 5.2 Identify preferred feed sources and assess samples for quality and suitability
  • 5.3 Identify potential feeding hazards and implement risk control options
  • 5.4 Prepare food in accordance with dietary needs
  • 5.5 Distribute food according to feeding schedule
6. Maintain records
  • 6.1 Complete feed and treatment records noting food consumption, health and care activities
  • 6.2 Report abnormalities to supervisor
  • 6.3 Complete documentation relevant to licences and transport, where required
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
BBE64 ACMSPE308 Provide basic care of marine invertebrates Unit of competency
BBF11 ACMSPE309 Provide basic care of terrestrial and freshwater invertebrates Unit of competency