Ariel Paracampo | Ecology | Best Paper Award

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Dr. Ariel Paracampo | Ecology | Best Paper Award

ILPLA | Argentina

Author Profile

Scopus

🌟 ARIEL HERNÁN PARACAMPO: A PIONEER IN AQUATIC ECOLOGY

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Ariel Hernán Paracampo, born on September 16, 1981, in La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina, laid the foundation of his academic journey at the National University of La Plata (UNLP). He earned his degree in Biology, specializing in Zoology, in 2008. Demonstrating a profound interest in aquatic ecosystems, he pursued a doctorate in Natural Sciences, culminating in his groundbreaking thesis titled “Toxicity of Pesticides, Fish Assemblages, and Their Relationship with Limnological Characteristics in Pampean Streams” in 2013.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Paracampo’s professional career is rooted in research and education. He has held various academic roles, including positions as an assistant and lecturer at the UNLP, contributing to courses such as Vertebrate Zoology and Aquatic Morphology and Physiology. His research has been conducted at the prestigious Institute of Limnology Dr. Raúl A. Ringuelet (ILPLA), focusing on the ecological integrity of aquatic ecosystems.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON ECOLOGY

Ariel Hernán Paracampo’s work revolves around:

  • The impact of agrochemicals on aquatic biodiversity.
  • Investigating the functional and taxonomic diversity of fish assemblages.
  • Developing strategies for the rehabilitation and management of Pampean floodplains and streams.

His projects, funded by organizations like CONICET and the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Productive Innovation, have significantly advanced our understanding of aquatic ecosystem health and biodiversity conservation.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Paracampo’s research has influenced policy and conservation practices, particularly in the management of aquatic ecosystems in Argentina. His findings on pesticide toxicity and ecological modeling have provided actionable insights for mitigating human-induced environmental impacts.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Paracampo has authored numerous research articles in peer-reviewed journals. His work spans topics such as:

  • Limnological studies.
  • The role of aquatic habitats in biodiversity conservation.
  • Fish ecology and assemblage dynamics.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Multiple CONICET scholarships for initiation, postgraduate, and postdoctoral research.
  • Awards for his contributions to limnology and aquatic ecology.

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

As a leader in aquatic ecology, Dr. Paracampo’s legacy lies in his unwavering commitment to environmental preservation. His future endeavors promise to deepen our understanding of aquatic ecosystems and drive sustainable management practices.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Ariel Hernán Paracampo exemplifies dedication to ecological research, bridging scientific understanding with actionable solutions for environmental challenges. His tireless efforts continue to inspire students, researchers, and policymakers alike.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Horticultural land use effect on fish assemblages in Neotropical lowland streams, Buenos Aires, Argentina
  • Authors: Paredes del Puerto, J.M., Mugni, H., Cappelletti, N., Bonetto, C., Paracampo, A.
  • Journal: Aquatic Sciences
  • Year: 2024
Extreme drought conditions interact with urbanisation, affecting hydrological regimes and water quality in temperate lowland streams
  • Authors: Paredes del Puerto, J.M., Sathicq, M.B., Altieri, P., Gómez, N., Colautti, D.
  • Journal: Aquatic Sciences
  • Year: 2024
Effects of urban demand for food and water on physicochemicals and biotic structure of riverine wetlands in the Pampean plain
  • Authors: Gómez, N., Siri, A., Capítulo, L.R., Sathicq, M.B., Catanzaro, L.N.S.R.
  • Journal: Ecohydrology and Hydrobiology
  • Year: 2022
Freshwater fishes of the Río de la Plata: current assemblage structure
  • Authors: Maiztegui, T., Paracampo, A.H., Liotta, J., Bonetto, C., Colautti, D.C.
  • Journal: Neotropical Ichthyology
  • Year: 2022
Impacts of land use and hydrological alterations on water quality and fish assemblage structure in headwater Pampean streams (Argentina)
  • Authors: Paredes del Puerto, J.M., García, I.D., Maiztegui, T., Maroñas, M.E., Colautti, D.C.
  • Journal: Aquatic Sciences
  • Year: 2022
Fish assemblages and water quality in pampean streams (Argentina) along an urbanization gradient
  • Authors: Paredes del Puerto, J.M., Paracampo, A.H., García, I.D., Maroñas, M.E., Colautti, D.C.
  • Journal: Hydrobiologia
  • Year: 2021

 

Zezethu Mnqeta | Invasive Plant Species | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Zezethu Mnqeta | Invasive Plant Species | Young Scientist Award

University of Limpopo | South Africa

✨Suitable for  Young Scientist Award

Zezethu Mnqeta is a suitable candidate for the Young Scientist Award, especially if the award focuses on contributions to environmental sustainability, biological control, and early-career scientific impact. Highlighting her leadership in establishing collaborative research nodes and her teaching excellence would bolster her nomination.

Author Profile

✨ZEZETHU MNQETA: CHAMPION OF BIOLOGICAL CONTROL AND EDUCATION 

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Zezethu Mnqeta, born on 12 October 1989 in South Africa, began her academic journey with an innate passion for the natural world. Fluent in English, isiXhosa, and isiZulu, she completed her Bachelor’s degree in Botany and Zoology at the University of Fort Hare in 2010. Her honors research focused on the ecological impact of invasive species, a theme that laid the foundation for her career. She later obtained her MSc and PhD in Entomology from Rhodes University, delving into biological control mechanisms to combat invasive cacti in South Africa.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Zezethu has held impactful roles in academia, including her current position as a Temporary Senior Lecturer in Plant Protection at the University of Limpopo. She has previously served as a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at Rhodes University’s Centre for Biological Control (CBC). Her teaching, research, and supervisory responsibilities reflect her dedication to shaping the next generation of scientists. Beyond academia, she has collaborated with stakeholders to address ecological challenges through biological control of invasive plants.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Invasive Plant Species

Zezethu’s work focuses on the environmental impacts and management of invasive alien plants through biological control methods. Her groundbreaking research includes:

  • Studying the interactions between biological control agents.
  • Assessing the impact and safety of biocontrol agents on invasive alien cacti.
  • Collaborating on the establishment of a cactus biological control node in Limpopo Province.

Her commitment to community engagement and environmental education demonstrates her dedication to translating research into action.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Zezethu has influenced the field of plant entomology and biological control through her publications, symposia presentations, and collaborative projects. She actively mentors students at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels, fostering a new generation of scientists. Her work has been showcased at international forums, highlighting South Africa’s efforts in combating invasive species.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Zezethu has published several papers in prestigious academic journals, focusing on entomology, pest management, and the impact of biological control agents. She has also presented her research at national and international conferences, showcasing her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

Zezethu has been recognized for her contributions with various certifications and accolades, including:

  • DST-NRF Internship Programme Certificate of Completion
  • Responsible Use of Pesticides Certificate
  • Biological Control Short Course Certificate
  • International Training Programme on Pesticide Management

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Zezethu Mnqeta continues to pave the way for sustainable solutions in pest management. Her vision includes establishing a cactus biological control node in Limpopo Province, furthering collaboration with research institutions, and mentoring future scientists in her field.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Zezethu Mnqeta exemplifies dedication to environmental sustainability, academic excellence, and impactful education. Her journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance in making meaningful contributions to science and society.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

  • “Biological control against Opuntia aurantiaca Lindley (Cactaceae) and the perceptions of land-users in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa”
    Authors: Mnqeta, Z., Paterson, I.D.
    Journal: Biocontrol Science and Technology
    Year: 2024
  • “Could alien invasive species be a solution to postharvest losses of fresh produce?”
    Authors: Mditshwa, A., Mnqeta, Z., Mahlambi, P.N., Khaliq, G.
    Journal: Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems
    Year: 2023
  • “Biological Control of Invasive Climbing Plants in South Africa”
    Authors: King, A.M., Paterson, I.D., Simelane, D.O., Mawela, K.V., Mnqeta, Z.
    Journal: African Entomology
    Year: 2021
  • “Biological Control of Cactaceae in South Africa”
    Authors: Paterson, I.D., Klein, H., Muskett, P.C., Mnqeta, Z., Venter, N.
    Journal: African Entomology
    Year: 2021
  • “Interactions between two biological control agents and their target weed: a beetle, a bug and a cactus weed”
    Authors: Mnqeta, Z., Paterson, I.D.
    Journal: Biocontrol Science and Technology
    Year: 2019