Introduction

Ensuring future supplies of clean freshwater will be critical for maintenance of a healthy environment and sustained economic growth. The need for well-trained aquatic scientists in the next several decades will be great as society balances economic growth and conservation of aquatic resources. The Aquatic Biology Program at the University of Alabama is dedicated to providing education and training for young scientists to meet future manpower needs in academia, environmental agencies, and the private sector.

Within the Department of Biological Sciences 16 faculty have research specialties and expertise in aquatic biota and/or aquatic ecosystem ecology. Faculty research includes ecology, systematics and evolution of aquatic biota ranging in scale from microbes, algae and aquatic plants to invertebrates and vertebrates. Habitats of interest include streams, rivers, wetlands, and marine systems. Along with colleagues in other departments across campus, the Aquatic Biology faculty offer excellent opportunities for education and research training.