Ichthyology

Ichthyology is the scientific study of fishes, a branch of zoology that covers their classification, anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology, and evolution. The field addresses both cartilaginous fishes (Chondrichthyes) and bony fishes (Osteichthyes), as well as the broader diversity of jawless fishes in some classifications. Ichthyologists study species diversity, life histories, reproductive biology, growth, sensory systems, and adaptations to aquatic environments, as well as the roles of fishes in ecosystems and their interactions with humans.

Taxonomy and systematics are central to ichthyology, with researchers describing species, reconstructing evolutionary relationships, and building reference catalogs and checklists. Fieldwork often involves sampling, tagging, and surveys, while laboratory work uses anatomy, histology, genetics, and molecular techniques to resolve questions about lineage, function, and development. Pale ichthyology examines fossil fishes to illuminate evolutionary transitions and the historical context of modern diversity.

Applications of ichthyology include fisheries science, conservation biology, and biodiversity assessment, as well as improvements in aquaculture and environmental monitoring. Understanding fish biology supports sustainable management of wild populations, protection of endangered species, and assessment of how climate change, pollution, and habitat loss affect aquatic ecosystems. The discipline intersects with disciplines such as ecology, genetics, physiology, and anthropology, contributing to both basic science and practical resource management.