Plankton ecology across continents: a study of African and neotropical freshwater systems

• Grant number: 25/10315-6
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Visiting Researcher Grant - International
• Start date: November 19, 2025
• End date: December 09, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Ecology - Ecosystems Ecology
• Principal Investigator: Hugo Miguel Preto de Morais Sarmento
• Grantee: Hugo Miguel Preto de Morais Sarmento
• Visiting researcher: Jean-Pierre Descy
• Visiting researcher institution: Université De Liège/Ul, Belgium
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde (CCBS). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Aquatic ecology has emerged as a crucial field of research globally, particularly due to its role in understanding and mitigating the impacts of environmental changes on freshwater ecosystems, in addition to water scarcity in several regions of the world. Among the world's most biodiverse yet vulnerable and understudied regions, the freshwater systems of Africa and the Neotropics (America´s) stand out due to their ecological complexity and importance for global biodiversity conservation. Professor Jean Pierre Descy (https://researchportal.unamur.be/en/persons/jpdescy), an internationally recognized expert from the University of Liège, Belgium, has significantly advanced the field of aquatic ecology through pioneering research on plankton ecology, particularly within African freshwater ecosystems.Professor Descy's visit to the Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCar) presents a unique opportunity to foster collaboration between African and Neotropical ecological research, facilitating an unprecedented comparative approach. His extensive expertise in phytoplankton and zooplankton dynamics in African aquatic systems complements the ongoing research conducted by Professors Hugo Sarmento and Gilmar Perbiche Neves, who specialize in similar ecosystems in Brazil. Leveraging this synergy will enhance the impact and depth of the resulting scientific collaboration.The collaborative research during Professor Descy's stay will primarily address two critical scientific topics: 1) the ecological dynamics and biodiversity patterns of phytoplankton and zooplankton communities in shallow lakes within the Congo River Basin; 2) plankton community structure and ecological processes in the great lakes of the River Nile basin (Lakes Edward, Albert and Kyoga). Additionally, Professors Descy, Sarmento, and Neves will collaborate intensively to investigate zooplankton diversity and ecological interactions within the Congo River and its tributaries, especially supported by a recent project finished at Congo River Basin (Taxonomy and spatial and temporal dynamics of microcrustaceans (Cladocera and Copepoda) along the Congo River (Africa) (FAPESP 20/04047-5).Moreover, Professor Descy will actively engage with the broader academic community at UFSCar, delivering a keynote lecture entitled "Tropical Phytoplankton Ecology" which will cover critical aspects of plankton ecology relevant to tropical freshwater systems, based on its experience on the East African Great Lakes and rivers. He will also offer interactive sessions, providing students, particularly those holding FAPESP grants related to plankton ecology, direct access to his valuable expertise. Some of these students have projects directly connected with African lakes or rivers, whose contribution by Prof. Descy will be of great importance due to his experience. These interactions will include one-on-one mentoring, tailored advice for ongoing student research projects.This engagement is expected to enrich the ongoing and future research conducted at UFSCar, strengthening the institution's leadership in aquatic ecology research. Ultimately, Professor Descy's visit will foster substantial academic growth, encourage international collaboration, and contribute to the development of research strategies that address ecological questions in both African and Neotropical freshwater ecosystems. (AU)