Fisheries science in Maryland began in the 1920s with pioneering oyster research by Professor R. Truitt, founder of Chesapeake Biological Laboratory (CBL). Since then, CBL fishery scientists have contributed significantly to knowledge of the Chesapeake Bay's fished species and of the habitats and ecosystems supporting them. Current endeavors continue to emphasize the Chesapeake Bay, which, as one of the world's most productive estuaries, also serves as a model for coastal and estuarine fisheries and ecosystems throughout the world.

An Ecosystem-Based Perspective: CBL's fishery scientists apply an ecosystem-based approach to much of their research, recognizing that such considerations are vital to the sustainability of aquatic resources. This approach builds upon the group's traditional focus on population and community ecology, population dynamics, ecosystem modeling, and restoration ecology.

Interdisciplinary Science: CBL's commitment to interdisciplinary research has fostered innovative approaches to issues facing marine fisheries. Examples include the coupling of physical and biological oceanographic models, the use of chemical tracers to examine patterns of fish migration, and the application of genetic and biochemical signatures of fish conditions, diseases, and stresses. Fisheries scientists and students also investigate questions outside the traditional boundaries of fisheries science, such as studies of ecotoxicology and species invasions.

Commitment to Students: The fisheries faculty members are dedicated to training a new generation of scientists who will continue CBL's legacy of excellence and service. Along with teaching, the faculty supervises the research of about 20 graduate students, who are supported by national fellowships, grants, and university fellowships.

Professional Advisory Services: CBL's fisheries faculty is committed to using science to help solve pressing issues in fisheries management. Faculty members serve on numerous international, national, and regional advisory panels to help ensure the sustainability of the planet's aquatic resources.