SAIAB Seminar Series 2024: Hesmarie Botha

Exploring gnathiid isopods, the "mosquitoes" of the marine world
Presented by: Hesmarie Botha
Research Student, NRF-SAIAB;
North-West University, Potchefstroom
Smaller organisms, such as parasites, have historically been overshadowed by the study of larger ones, such as mammals. However, in recent decades, the study of parasites has gained momentum, and we are gradually beginning to understand their role in the greater natural system. Gnathiids are marine fish parasites that, like mosquitoes, feed on the blood and other fluids of their hosts. They display a range of features that have led to confusion in past species descriptions, necessitating the re-description of some species, especially those from South Africa, where almost half of the known species were described around 100 years ago.
Additionally, this study aims to obtain new gnathiid samples and potentially discover new species, contributing to our known biodiversity. Furthermore, based on pre-existing and newly collected information, this project will seek to establish links between all gnathiids from the Temperate Southern Africa marine biogeographic realm. The presenter provides insights into the methodologies used for sample collection, highlights the potential discoveries of new species, offering a deeper understanding of gnathiid biodiversity and its implications for marine ecosystems.
Seminar Series 08 August, 2024 10:30 AM