Newly Discovered Parasite Named After NWU Scientist
- Karen Scheepers
- Aug 21
- 1 min read
A newly identified parasite has been officially named Latergator louisdupreezi in honour of Prof Louis du Preez of North-West University. The organism was discovered by researchers in the United States and belongs to a family of ocular parasites that inhabit the eyes of freshwater turtles, hippopotamuses, and alligators.
Research Background
Prof du Preez’s research career has been closely linked to this group of parasites. For decades, studies were conducted on crocodiles and alligators in both Africa and the United States to confirm the existence of the species. Despite extensive examinations, the parasite remained elusive until it was finally located on the eye of an alligator during recent research efforts in the US.
Scientific Recognition
The naming recognises his long-standing contributions to parasitology and his work on this specific group of organisms. Assigning scientific names to new species as a tribute to researchers is a well-established tradition in taxonomy.
Previous Honour
This is not the first time Prof du Preez has received such recognition. In 2023, a new frog species from Madagascar was named Blommersia dupreezi by German scientists in acknowledgement of his significant work on flatworm parasites of Malagasy amphibians.
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