THE SIXTH INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON MONOGENEA

Louis Du Preez1, Kevin Christison2, Carina de Beer1,

Che Weldon1, Leon Meyer1, & David Vaughan3

1School of Environmental Sciences and Development, Potchefstroom Campus, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa. 2Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Marine and Coastal Management, Private Bag X2, Roggebaai, 8012, South Africa

The combined Monogenea Research Groups at the North-West University (NWU) and Marine and Coastal Management (MCM) host the Sixth International Symposium on the Monogenea (ISM6) from 2 to 7 August, 2009 at the Protea Hotel, Victoria Junction in Cape Town South Africa, this being the first time an ISM has been held on the African Continent. Research into Monogenea in Africa has relied chiefly on the works of a few individual scientists who primarily conducted their studies in North and West Africa. In a period spanning almost three decades Paperna laid the foundation for monogenean research in Africa particularly for monogeneans from freshwater fish. In this time he described numerous species and erected 11 genera. In addition to Paperna, a number of French and other international scientists have also made key contributions in this field, with most of these studies being confined to West African countries. Monogenean research in Southern Africa remains very sparse, emphasizing the important role of this conference in bringing high level international exposure to the region.

ISM6 will comprise 4 full days of scientific sessions. Mid-week there will be break in proceedings with a scenic drive along the spectacular coast to the famous whale watching town of Hermanus! Besides the whales, Hermanus is also famed for being the hub of the South African abalone farming industry and we will be visiting one of the numerous farms in the area. The Conference Dinner will be held on the final evening of ISM6.

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