Historical analysis of the Journal of the Southern African Society of Aquatic Scientists and prospects for the development of a sub-Saharan African limnology

Abstract

For many years the Journal published by the Southern African Society of Aquatic Scientists has aimed to provide a forum for the publication of research results, observations, comment, theories, hypotheses and other information on natural waters in and around Africa south of the Sahara. The objective has been to promote the understanding of their functioning, conservation and wise management for the benefit of all the peoples of this subcontinent. At a time when many South African journals are assuming a title of continental relevance, as is this Journal, it is appropriate to examine its publication history from its inception in 1975 up to 1999, after which the name was changed. An analysis of authorship demographics and patterns of publication reveals that South African authors dominated our Journal and shows that there has been no significant shift in the contributions by authors from outside the borders of South Africa. Unlike international trends, there has been no significant shift toward multi-authored papers published in this Journal. Furthermore, although lentic waters research has dominated, there has been a significant decline since 1975. Whilst we support the use of the word ‘African’ in the Journal's new title, we make a number of recommendations, including the selection of a representative editorial board tasked with specific duties aimed at increasing the diversity and scope of papers, as well as a possible mentoring system for local students, the publishing of country reviews and monographs or special issues as they relate specifically to Africa's inland waters. We hope that these may help the Society improve the access, representation and contribution of the continent's aquatic scientists and other aquatic practitioners to the Journal.