An Atlantic salmon.
A fish biologist works in natural environments such as fish and lakes, as well as farms and aquariums to study and monitor fish populations. Careers in this area may also include laboratory work, depending on the type of research a fish biologist does. Some private companies, government agencies, and academic institutions have openings for fish biologists on their faculty and staff, creating many different opportunities for people interested in this area of science. Typically, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree to start applying for jobs of this nature.
Some fish biologists travel with fishing boats to observe fishing practices.
One aspect of a fish biologist’s job may involve counting and monitoring wild fish populations in regions where health concerns exist. This may include trips with fishing boats to observe fishing practices, collect samples, and monitor crews for signs of illegal fishing activities. The biologist may also conduct water quality studies, botanical surveys, and other research to explore interactions between fish and their environment and identify issues of concern.
A fish biologist may perform necropsies on dead fish, especially if there is a large group of them.
In the event of a problem such as a fish kill, a sudden decline in a fishery, or a drastic change in the natural environment, fish biologists may be called in. They may conduct investigations to learn more about the cause of the event and the impact on populations of fish and other organisms. This may include helping environmental authorities resolve a problem, as well as developing recommendations to prevent future incidents. A fish kill, for example, could be the result of a chemical release from a factory, which may need to tighten its pollution control protocols.
Fish biologists often focus on combating water pollution and habitat degradation.
Aquaculture facilities that raise fish for human consumption and other purposes also need specialized fish biologists. They can develop adequate facilities and procedures for handling fish, as well as for monitoring the health of populations. In aquarium settings, a fish biologist may work with rare and important specimens to keep them healthy for observation and study. The work may also include public awareness and education on museum premises, where the public can learn about the fish in demonstrations and workshops.
Responsibilities can be quite varied and may involve activities ranging from necropsies of dead fish to chemical analysis of water samples. Depending on where a fish biologist works, there may be expectations for continuing education to stay current in the field. It may also be necessary to publish articles, present at conferences, and demonstrate other evidence of professional development to be considered for promotions and tenure.