An aquatic biologist studies freshwater life in rivers, lakes, wetlands, and similar bodies of inland water. This work in the environmental sciences can take place both in the lab and in the field, depending on the employer and the nature of the projects a biologist works on. A college degree is required and many facilities prefer applicants with graduate degrees in aquatic biology. Careers in this field are open in the government, nonprofit, private, and educational sectors.
One aspect of the work of an aquatic biologist can involve resource management. Some scientists focus on maintaining waterways for sports, shipping, and environmental health. They regularly inspect the sites they supervise, take water samples for sampling, and evaluate conditions to determine if any changes need to be made. Their responsibilities can range from environmental cleanup to remove pollutants to planting to restore native species in a wetland.
Other aquatic biologist careers involve pure research. They can study plant and animal life in a variety of settings to learn more about interconnected ecosystems. Some may study the impacts of human activity on aquatic environments. Others can work on topics like rehabilitation and habitat restoration, protecting endangered species, and identifying different kinds of ecosystems.
In the field, aquatic biologists can take samples of water, plants, and animals. Many take pictures and some use scientific equipment to take measurements and record data about the environments they study. Some may have permanent equipment installations to monitor passing wildlife, continuously sample rainfall, air pressure, and other characteristics. These help track the progress of experiments and observations. Lab work can be wet and dirty, as biologists must usually perform their duties despite adverse weather conditions.
Lab environments allow an aquatic biologist to work with microscopes, gas chromatographs, and other equipment to take measurements and explore samples. This requires a knowledge of the systems and protocols used in a lab. They can use the information they collect to track populations, monitor changes in the ecosystem, and establish baseline measurements. These measurements can be useful for activities like monitoring the impact of a habitat restoration program.
Government representatives may work on topics like conservation, balancing competing needs for natural resources, and protecting national heritage. Employees at nonprofit agencies tend to work for environmental groups with an interest in freshwater habitats. At private companies, an aquatic biologist may work on topics ranging from controlling algae in ponds at golf courses to more effectively controlling freshwater pollution.
