The application of molecular biology and biotechnology to marine organisms is beginning, and "marine biotechnology" for commercial, environmental, and national security applications is emerging rapidly. A number of exciting fundamental research discoveries in marine biology were made during the last decade and more are being made as research advances in a number of areas. There is also now a need to address technological and policy issues arising from these fundamental discoveries. Marine biotechnology is at a critical juncture in the United States. The proposed effort includes forming a committee to examine the importance of marine biotechnology and key research and development policy issues.
