Marine biologists are scientists who study plant and animal life in oceans.

Marine biologists focus on many subject areas, such as:

• Migration of sea turtles
• Coral conservation
• Population changes in different species of fish
• Whale migration
• Habitats such as coral reefs, kelp forests, tide pools, or the open ocean

Marine biologists read articles and attend conferences to learn more about their research area. They come up with questions to research. They design experiments to study those questions. Biologists experiment in labs, oceans, or other sites.

Some biologists collect specimens from the ocean to study in labs, others spend hours observing animal life in their natural habitat or in aquariums. Marine biologists also train or care for sea animals in captivity.

Some marine biologists have assistants and train them to conduct research, collect data, and keep records. Biologists interpret the study results and write reports. They may present their findings at conferences.

Marine biologists work in teams and independently. They may work with engineers, business managers, technicians, and other scientists. Many marine biologists work for private companies or the government. Others work for colleges or non-profits. Marine biologists may also direct fisheries, or oversee aquariums.