The Biological Survey is both a state agency and a research department of the University of Oklahoma. The Biological Survey includes the Oklahoma Natural Heritage Inventory, Oklahoma Natural Areas Registry, and the Robert Bebb Herbarium. Our faculty and staff are committed to providing the best available information on biodiversity in the state of Oklahoma. We do this through our surveys, inventories, and research on the state’s biodiversity. We also collect, curate, and share existing biodiversity data. We are committed to training students and the public in biodiversity science. To achieve our goals we work closely with other allied organizations throughout the state and region.
ONAR Conservation Specialist, OBS Outreach Specialist
This person will manage the Oklahoma Natural Areas Registry landowner program; coordinate educational and outreach activities for the Oklahoma Biological Survey, including planning our centennial celebrations in 2027; and assist with biological field work and conservation assessments.
This friendly, color illustrated guide is perfect for citizen-scientists and curious wanderers as they set out to explore the state’s abundant natural diversity. Due out in Spring 2026.
Featuring Oklahoma's seven venomous snakes, all of which are considered pitvipers, family Viperidae.
Recently retired biologist and faculuty member, Dr. Caryn Vaughn, donated a collection of over 3000 freshwater mussel specimens to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Caryn has made a career of understanding how the nearly 60 mussel species of Oklahoma function in aquatic ecosystems. Her research has led to practical applications that have improved waterways all over the world. Her upcoming book is a culmination of her career's work.
Dr. Caryn Vaughn has developed a new and comprehensive website about all the mussels found in Oklahoma.
10
gallons of water
can be filtered by an adult mussel in one day
60
mussel taxa are present in Oklahoma
65%
of mussel species are considered imperiled
