Paul Skelton unveils third edition of Freshwater Fishes of Southern Africa

The latest edition of Freshwater Fishes of Southern Africa, penned by renowned ichthyologist Paul Skelton, has made waves in both the academic and scientific communities. At the heart of the book launch event held at the North-West University (NWU) on November 4 at the NWU Sports Village, Skelton’s third edition offers fresh insights into the biodiversity of Southern Africa’s freshwater systems, reinforcing his longstanding influence in the field.

The first edition of Freshwater Fishes of Southern Africa was published in 1993, followed by the second edition in 2001. With the release of the third edition in 2024, Skelton, who has devoted much of his career to studying the systematics and biogeography of African freshwater fishes, is poised to contribute even more to the global understanding of the region’s diverse aquatic life. “This new edition is a culmination of years of research and experience,” said Skelton during his launch speech. “The process has been incredibly rewarding, but it also highlights the ongoing need for science to engage with local communities and address the challenges they face. It’s not just about fish; it’s about people and the ecosystems they rely on.”

At the launch, Skelton expressed deep gratitude to the institutions that have supported his work. “I want to extend my sincere thanks to the South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB), the National Research Foundation (NRF), the North-West University (NWU), and STRUIK Nature for publishing this edition. Without their support, this book would not have reached the stage it has today.” One of the book’s most significant updates is the inclusion of new features, offering readers an enriched perspective on South Africa’s freshwater ecosystems. The latest edition includes sections on the history of the scientific community in this field, the geography of South Africa, and even detailed maps from renowned experts like Joh Mendelsohn, Willem Coetzer, and Nick Rivers-Moor.

In addition, the book delves into fish anatomy, the life cycle of freshwater species, and the varying lifespans of different fish species. However, perhaps one of the most impactful chapters is the section on Human Interest Towards Freshwater Fishes. Skelton remarked, “In many parts of Southern Africa, such as Angola, fishing is not just a hobby, it’s a lifeline. For some, it’s the only means of securing food. The book aims to shed light on the human connection to these species and the challenges that come with overfishing and habitat loss.” The book launch was also a chance for alumni and former students to reflect on how Skelton’s work has shaped their careers. Nico Smith, a former student of Skelton, shared how the book had inspired him to pursue a career in science. “I remember reading The Skelton as a student,” Smith said, referring to the book fondly. “It was the reason I fell in love with the science department. Paul’s passion and dedication to his work were contagious.”In his address, Skelton also paid tribute to the pioneers of African ichthyology, Rex and Alida Jubb from Grahamstown, who were instrumental in shaping his career. “They were my mentors,” Skelton said. “Without their guidance, I would not be where I am today. Their pioneering work in freshwater fish research continues to influence me and many others.”

The new edition of Freshwater Fishes of Southern Africa is not just a technical reference but a celebration of the continent’s biodiversity and its importance to both science and society. Skelton’s work has been a vital part of documenting and understanding the immense variety of fish species found across Southern Africa, and this latest edition is set to further elevate the scientific community’s efforts in freshwater conservation. During the Q&A session following the presentation, Skelton was asked about his future plans. With a smile, he replied, “I have a lot of ideas in the pipeline. I’m still very passionate about promoting science, and I’ll continue to market this book. But I’ll also be continuing to do what I love – engaging with the scientific community and sharing the wonders of aquatic life with the world.”

As Skelton looks ahead, his dedication to the study of African freshwater fishes remains unwavering. Freshwater Fishes of Southern Africa, now in its third edition, is a testament to his decades of research, his contributions to the scientific community, and his enduring passion for the lifeforms that inhabit Southern Africa’s rivers, lakes, and wetlands.