Fisheries Scientist

Fisheries scientists come from many different backgrounds, but all are dedicated to effective management, use, and conservation of aquatic plants and animals. As researchers, managers, administrators, or educators, they use their expertise in biology, ecology, statistics, genetics, economics, policy and administration, and law to protect and enhance recreational, commercial, and aquaculture fisheries resources.

Fisheries scientists can hold research or management positions dealing with species or habitat evaluation. They can be federal biologists monitoring commercial harvests of fishes, crabs, shrimps, or oysters, or state biologists studying sport fish populations. Some work as disease specialists at federal fish hatcheries, aquatic resource specialists for environmental consulting firms, or production managers for private aquaculture facilities.