What Do Marine Biologists Do

Marine biologists are scientists who study life in the ocean. They learn about fish, whales, dolphins, coral reefs, and tiny creatures you can only see with a microscope. Marine biologists want to understand how ocean animals live and how to protect them. Their work helps keep our oceans healthy.

Working in the Ocean

Marine biologists often scuba dive to study animals underwater. They collect samples of water and plants to study in a lab. Some ride in submarines to explore the deep sea. They tag animals like sharks and sea turtles to track where they travel. Every dive can bring a new discovery.

Why It Matters

Oceans cover more than 70 percent of our planet. Marine biologists help protect endangered sea animals. They study how pollution and climate change affect the ocean. Their research helps governments make rules to keep the seas clean. Marine biologists also help rescue stranded whales and dolphins.

Fun Facts

• We have explored less than 20 percent of the ocean floor, so there is still so much to discover.
• The deepest part of the ocean is the Mariana Trench, almost 7 miles deep.
• Some marine biologists have discovered species that glow in the dark.

Did You Know?

Sylvia Earle, a famous marine biologist, has spent over 7,000 hours underwater. She was the first woman to walk on the ocean floor in a special deep-sea suit!