Robin Michalak, age 13, of East Brunswick, N.J., for her question:

WHAT IS AN ICHTHYOLOGIST?

Ichthyology is the branch of zoology that deals with

fishes, and an ichthyologist is a scientist who works in this field.

An ichthyologist's work may involve a number of different areas. For example, he may study the development, structure and habits of fishes. He might be involved in the classification of the numerous kinds of fishes or of their geographical distribution. Another area of study is the mutual relations existing between fishes and their environment.

An ichthyologist is also interested in all aspects of fishes' importance to man, such as fisheries and the conservation of food and game fishes.

Many colleges and universities have programs of study for those interested in fishes.