Stream Ecologist

A freshwater stream ecologist and river ecologist study the animal and plant life in Texas’ streams and rivers.

A female stream ecologist kneeling in a stream studying aquatic animal and plant life and doing research studies.

Photo credit: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

A stream ecologist may conduct surveys of stream life, run statistical analysis, or do research studies. It is interesting to work from a boat, wade through streams, or even work in a laboratory using special tanks that imitate stream and river habitats. An ecologist can find work in state and federal agencies, and in environmental consulting firms. A river or stream ecologist usually has a master’s or doctorate degree in aquatic biology or a related field.