July 22, 2020
Fisheries Scientist/biologist
South Africa’s famous marine biodiversity has spawned an equally diverse set of opportunities for marine scientists, with many South Africans among the top professionals worldwide in their respective fields. Fisheries scientists and biologists are specialists in their field who play a crucial role in most aspects of fishing, from commercial offshore to land-based aquaculture.
Detailed knowledge of the marine environment is the starting point of any major fishing endeavour, be it small-scale or deep-sea trawling.
Fisheries scientists are equally important to the private and public sector, providing the necessary knowledge and data to inform decisions around resource management and exploitation.
Experimental fisheries and conservation initiatives are particularly dependent upon several aspects of marine science. Fisheries scientists are also instrumental in establishing and monitoring South Africa’s marine protected areas. They also provide valuable feedback regarding fishing quotas via scientific working groups.
In addition, they help companies evolve ever more sophisticated technology to track fish and understand ocean dynamics. In this regard a career in marine science offers opportunities for international collaboration and cross-sectoral research. South Africa is party to several binding international scientific agreements that underpin many ongoing research projects.
Fisheries scientists have a critical ongoing role in understanding the impact of climate change on South Africa’s fisheries.
Key tasks:
• Research fish biology (including genetics), biodiversity and population dynamics.
• Measure and model wild fish stock population levels and advise on sustainable Total Allowable
• Catches in each sector.
• Study ocean chemistry, currents, and temperatures as well as plankton populations and their impact on fish populations which feed on them.
• Address the environmental impacts of fishing.
• Study climate change and its impacts on fish biodiversity and populations.
• Assess the viability of harvesting (or farming) different fish species.
Entry requirements/training:
Fisheries scientists require a formal qualification from a tertiary institution. A background in biology, science and mathematics at school level is a necessary springboard. Further training may be required depending upon the particular work stream. A vessel monitor would require specific further training in the form of a National Certificate: Fisheries Observation, either onshore or offshore.
Career advancement:
Marine scientists might also choose to further their studies in the form of post-graduate studies, with the possibility of a career in academia or government service.
Associated job opportunities:
Fisheries Scientists or Biologists can explore various associated job opportunities within and beyond traditional research roles. Here are some potential career paths and associated job opportunities:
• Fisheries Manager
• Aquatic Ecologist
• Fisheries Extension Specialist
• Conservation Biologist
• Marine Biologist
• Environmental Consultant
