Diego Araujo

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Meet Diego Araujo, Fish Seeker!

Diego is a fish biologist, working at the New Mexico Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office.

How would you describe your conservation work to someone you just met?  

​I work with threatened and endangered species (mostly fish) and I try to make sure they do not go extinct.

What does conservation mean to you?  

​Conservation seemingly has an evolving definition. But I think simply put, it means responsible stewardship of natural resources (wildlife, water, land) so that those resources continue to persist in the wild after we are gone

What is your favorite aquatic species?  

​That’s like asking a parent which is their favorite child, but I would have to go with pupfish. They are so charismatic. You can see them exhibit several behaviors depending on what you are doing. They can be aggressive when defending breeding spots, sassy when dancing trying to court a mate, or downright inquisitive if you are snorkeling in their habitat, like “Whatcha doing?"

Do you have a memorable moment on the job?

​I was sitting on the banks of the Rio Grande in the Lower Canyons on a work trip, we were looking for a particular fish. It had to be day 7 or 8 of a 12-day float trip and we were getting skunked. I turn to my buddy and told him 'we're ‘gonna get em tomorrow.” And we did!  When we found them ... we did a little dancing in the Rio.

Most enjoyable aspect of your work.  

​I think its seeing the results of our efforts, in being able to see the fish we are working with alive and flourishing after we have completed our work. Whether that be in a habitat sans invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.

Learn more about invasive species , or one where they were extirpated from and are now back.

What led to your career choice? Did you have a fish or conservation "ah-ha!" moment?

​I grew up in the desert of west Texas that at one point had a pretty significant river, the Rio Grande. When I returned home after a few years away, the river was a shell of its former self. We're talking from bank-to-bank raging water, to a trickle in the center of the river channel, and I remember asking 'what happens to all the fish?'

Where did you go to school?

I received my B.S. in Aquatic Biology and my M.S. in Aquatic Resources from Texas State University.

To find available fish biologist jobs, go to USAJobs.gov. Search “0482” Filter by “U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service” or “Department of the Interior.” Position requires a degree with a major in biological sciences or a combination of education and experience. Details about education and experience requirements. Specific requirements are detailed in individual job listings.