Studies & Degrees in Hydrobiology

Choose where you would like to study Hydrobiology:

Hydrobiology is for the most part viewed as a discipline brought out from the world of ecology. However, it encompasses a far broader spectrum of its own. Its studies include the disciplines of morphology, taxonomy, physiology, among many others. The distinguishing aspect being that Hydrobiology studies all of these disciplines with respect to the life processes of aquatic or water dwelling organisms. It can also be divided into two major areas of study: lotic system ecology, which is the study of hydrobiology in flowing waters such as rivers and streams, and lentic system ecology, which is the study of hydrobiology in still waters such as a lake or a swamp.

Hydrobiology lends itself to many areas of research. Of particular interest to many hydro-biologists for research are the fields of ocean acidification and Paleolimnology. Ocean acidification researches the phenomena of the continuous decrease of the pH levels of the world’s oceans. On the other hand Paleolimnology is a study that is concerned with the construction of the paleoenvironments of inland bodies of water such as lakes and rivers. Climate change and the impact of human intervention are also major concerns of the research.

Students of Hydrobiology can expect to learn about all of the basic principles of hydrobiology including ecology and watershed management which deals with creating and processing projects, plans, and programs to deal with the sustainability of the function of a watershed as it affects both aquatic and human life alike. In depth understanding will be cultivated regarding health and medicine of aquatic animals, management of fisheries and techniques for fisheries, aquatic insects, aquaculture, and the ecology of freshwater animals and invertebrates. Furthermore, aspects of fisheries science, aquatic microbial ecology, wetland microbial biology, and environmental analysis are also heavily discussed.

The study of hydrobiology also takes into account the principles of aquatic genetics, aquatic plant ecology, the science of environmental systems, and oceanography. Oceanography encompasses a wide range of subjects which include ecosystem dynamics, marine plants, animals, and organisms, ocean currents and even waves. Aquatic genetics meanwhile tackle subjects which affect the variations in aquatic organisms. It also studies the genes and hereditary characteristics of these organisms. Plant ecology deals with the many varying interactions between and among different plant species along with the interactions of these species with their immediate environment. It further touches on ecologies of plant population, community, landscape, and ecosystem.

Although much of the content deals with the main disciplines of hydrobiology, there are also other relevant course requirements that are added. Subjects such as applicable natural sciences and mathematics, latest computer applications, communications proficiency, and personal growth as well as professional development are incorporated into the course as well. These subjects would be very advantageous for the future hydro-biologist in succeeding in a career in hydrobiology.

Graduates of hydrobiology have many career options to choose from. Many opportunities can be found as specialists in environmental concerns, facilitators for wildlife companies and fisheries, and aquatic environment educators. Work is also available as zoo and marine life biological experts and specialist officers for conservation offices. For those with entrepreneurial skills, fish farming and other marine based businesses are a good option.