Cream of SA aquatic scientists gather in the Free State

Abstract

Mia Otto, Pieter Swanepoel and Prof Linda Basson all of the University of the Free State. Delegates pose for a group photograph. Dr Vic Wepener of North West University, Prof Paul Fouché of the University of Venda and Prof Johan van Vuren of the University of Johannesburg. The Southern African Society of Aquatic Scientists held its annual conference at Thaba Nchu from 22 to 26 June. Around 100 delegates attended this year’s conference, which provided a forum for discussion on aquatic science topics ranging from ecology and management to fisheries, parasitology, pollution and alien invasive species. True to its nature of being a student-friendly society, the conference offered an opportunity for many students to present their research work – many for the first time. The quality of papers were of an exceptional standard, bringing the hope that, while the sector remains small, South Africa’s aquatic scientists are among the best in the world. Martin Ferreira of Jeffares + Green, Dr Gordon o’Brien of Rhodes University and Prof Nico Smit of North West University.

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