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Harvesting Largemouth Bass at CFAAS Ponds
Raising Sturgeon in the new state-of-the-art Saluki Aquarium
Research Vessel Shovelnose
field research is fun
Student Examines Larval Sturgeon

Welcome to the SIU Center for Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Aquatic Sciences, a research center for both freshwater and marine science.

Southern Illinois is a great location for fisheries, fish biology, and aquatic research, with many lakes, streams, and rivers in which to work. We have a strong marine biology component and are within a day's drive to the Gulf of Mexico.

Did you know?

  • We help Illinois fish farmers raise more than $2 million a year
  • Our faculty are internationally known for their accomplishments
  • Center research brings millions of dollars to the Southern Illinois economy annually 
  • We provide educational and professional outreach to local schools and organizations
  • Fish and water are wonderful resources
  • CFAAS is a member of the National Association of University Fisheries and Wildlife Programs

Students from our program get jobs in many fields including

  • fisheries management in state & federal agencies
  • aquaculture in public and private sectors
  • marine biologist
  • aquarium facilitator (e.g., Shedd Aquarium)
  • marine & freshwater ecology
  • industry
  • toxicologist
  • geneticist
  • university professor
  • teachers/instructor
  • environmental consulting
  • non-profit conservation groups