The University of the Third Age (U3A) recently hosted a meeting featuring Professor Paul Skelton, a renowned expert in fish biology. Skelton shared his life journey, highlighting his experiences and discoveries in the field of ichthyology.
Skelton’s presentation took the audience on a journey through his remarkable career, which has spanned decades and continents. He shared stories of his research on various fish species, including the coelacanth, a prehistoric fish thought to have been extinct for millions of years. The coelacanth’s unique physiology and remarkable adaptations make it a fascinating subject of study. Its hollow fin, supported by a rostral organ, is a complex sensory system that helps the coelacanth navigate its surroundings. Additionally, the coelacanth’s ability to live in deep water, where the pressure is extreme and the light is scarce, is a testament to its remarkable adaptability.
The coelacanth’s fossil record shows that it has remained relatively unchanged for millions of years, earning it the nickname “living fossil.” This remarkable stability has allowed scientists to gain insights into the evolution of life on Earth and the complex relationships between different species. Prof Skelton’s work on the coelacanth has contributed significantly to our/the understanding of this ancient fish and its place in the natural world.
Throughout his presentation, Skelton emphasised the importance of conservation and protecting fish populations and their habitats. He highlighted the impact of human activities on fish populations and the need for sustainable management practices. Skelton’s work has had a lasting impact on the field of ichthyology, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of scientists.
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This article was first published in Talk of the Town, July 3, 2025. The newspaper serving the communities of Ndlambe and the Sunshine Coast, with a weekly wrap of Makhanda news, is available at stores from early on Thursdays.
