With the increasing population, the demand for food is going to increase and so the resources for food should be conserved. Aquatic organisms are an ideal source for proteins, and hence they have a huge demand. Thus, to meet those needs, it is essential that the aquaculture must be conserved. It is here where the fisheries biologist responsibilities play a crucial role in preserving and restoring the aquatic life.
Key Responsibilities of a Fisheries Biologist
Fisheries biologists perform a wide range of duties that help in conserving the aquatic life. Fisheries biologists monitor, sample, and evaluate the aquatic species to conduct environmental assessments, implement projects to evaluate the habitats, conduct educational programs and make sure that the fishing laws and regulations are being followed. To get a better idea, here is some detailed information about the key responsibilities that need to be handled by a fisheries biologist:
In addition to the above responsibilities, he is also engaged in the preparation of reports and presenting them to the senior personnel. These reports may include information related to the quality of water, the population of fish, etc. They develop plans for hatchery management, monitor the fish plantings, maintain the relevant inventories, make sure that the equipment used for the transport of fish is safe, handle relevant correspondence and reports, etc. He is involved in preparing the budgets, reviewing contracts, payments, issuing purchase orders, managing the reports, coordinating the fish distributing programs, participating in educational and training programs, etc. In short, he constantly strives and works towards conserving the aquatic life.
Essential Skills
A deep interest in studying the aquatic life and a scientific set of mind are essential to make a career as a fisheries biologist. Good observation and researching skills along with excellent interpersonal communication skills are also equally important. He should be flexible to work and travel in different environmental conditions and must possess good writing skills to document the conclusions that have been derived from various experiments. He should be able to come up with innovative solutions for the problems and should consistently strive to preserve the aquatic life. He must be able to work independently as well as should be comfortable working in a team environment.
Educational Background
The best way to make an entry as a fisheries biologist is to take a bachelor's degree in fisheries management, biology, ecology, zoology, aquatic science, oceanography, marine science, etc. A post graduation in fisheries, biology, water ecology, or any other relevant area would prove to be of great help as well.
Work Environment
Fisheries biologists are mostly employed in laboratories for research work in national parks, government to conduct analytical work, or at times may be found doing administration work like preparing the reports and recording the findings, etc. They mostly work for forty hours per week, but may need to travel at times to conduct field experiments, collect samples, etc. They may be required to work extra on some occassions.
Salary Details
The candidates who have just passed out can apply for the entry level positions and get a salary in the range of $40,000. Those with relevant work experience or pertinent internship can get a salary in the range of $68,000 to $72,000.
Career Prospects
The demand for fisheries biologists is definitely high in federal, state, and local government agencies as well as in private sectors. However, to get the right opportunity, you must be backed with the right kind of education and experience as well.
Thus, fisheries biologist responsibilities are essential to conserve the aquatic life, controlling the pollution, and restoring the natural habitat, thus assisting and improving the human life and preserving the marine species.