THE NOTHOBRANCHIUS SITE

Ruud Wildekamp was a leader in modern Nothobranchius taxonomy. From the 1970s onwards, he devoted much of his study to understanding the diversity and relationships of these remarkable seasonal fishes. At a time when the early species descriptions were often inadequate and the identification of several species remained uncertain, Ruud undertook the painstaking work of examining historical descriptions and museum specimens, clarifying species identities and establishing a much firmer taxonomic foundation for the genus. His revisions and numerous species descriptions helped bring order to what had previously been a rather confused field of study, opening the way for subsequent discoveries and a more systematic understanding of Nothobranchius diversity.

 

His approach to taxonomy has continued to influence generations of researchers. When I began preparing first descriptions of new Nothobranchius species, I had the privilege of consulting Ruud on several occasions. I particularly valued his advice on taxonomic methods, and made a conscious effort to maintain continuity with his approach, including the use of comparable morphometric procedures wherever possible. We also had the opportunity to meet regularly several times, such as in the research lab of the Royal Museum of Central Africa in Tervuren or at the annual KFN conventions in the Netherlands, where we could discuss our passion in person. He was an important inspiration to me, as he was to an entire generation of Nothobranchius enthusiasts and researchers.

 

I am deeply honoured that I have a collection of his research materials. These include carefully organised binders of notes and documentation, slide collections, and original illustrations used in some of his species descriptions, including that of Nothobranchius symoensi and others. I consider these materials much more than historical documents. They are a tangible connection to his work and scientific legacy, and I regard them as carefully guarded treasures.

 

Some of his original drawings now hang on the wall of my fishroom. It is perhaps the simplest way for me to remember Ruud and his contribution: whenever I look at them, I am reminded of the person whose work helped shape our understanding of these fishes.

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