Laboratory members
Tatenda Dalu

Dr Tatenda Dalu
Group Leader
Aquatic System Research Group

Ryan Wasserman
Prof Ryan J Wasserman
​Research Associate
Wetland Ecology Lab Group Leader
Ross Cuthbert
Dr Ross N Cuthbert
​Research Associate
GEOMAR, Germany
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Mr Farai Dondofema
​Research Associate
University of Venda
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Dr Chad Keates                                    Research Associate                               South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity
Timothy Dube
Prof Timothy Dube 
Research Associate
University of the Western Cape
Takudzwa Madzivanzira
Dr Takudzwa Madzivanzira
​Research Associate
South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity

Postdoctoral Fellows
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Pule Mpopetsi grew up in a small farming town called Namahadi Frankfort, situated in the north-eastern Free State. He did all his post-school studies (i.e., BSc, BSc hons, MSc, PhD in Ichthyology and Fisheries Sciences) at Rhodes University. His MSc thesis focused on the physiological response of larval fish (Argyrosomus japonicus) to ocean acidification, whereas for his PhD project he explored the drivers of co-occurring multiple non-native fishes within a flow modified river system. He is currently a Postdoctoral Fellow in the School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, working on the project titled “Biodiversity of temporary and permanent aquatic ecosystems in the Mpumalanga Province” under the leadership of Dr Dalu. Pule’s research interests lie within the field of community ecology, particularly in understanding species environmental relationships and the response of native freshwater communities to human-induced stressors, especially freshwater fish communities. 2023 – present

Scientific Publications

  1. Mpopetsi PP and Kadye WT. 2023. Colonisation theory and invasive biota: the Great Fish River case history, 35 years later. African Journal of Aquatic Science. https://doi.org/10.2989/16085914.2022.2142508. 

  2. Chakona A, Gouws G, Kadye WT, Mpopetsi PP and Skelton P. 2020. Probing hidden diversity to enhance conservation of the endangered narrow-range endemic Eastern Cape rock, Sandelia bainsii. Koedoe. 62:1–6.

  3. Mpopetsi P, Potts W, James N and Childs A. 2019. Towards defining the tipping point of tolerance to CO2-induced ocean acidification for the growth, development and metabolism of larval dusky kob Argyrosomus japonicus (Pisces: Sciaenidae) (Abstract). Open Science Index: Environmental and Ecological Engineering, 13(7).

Doctoral Students
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Rudzani Alice Tshifura grew up in the rural Vhembe District, Limpopo Province of South Africa. She completed a BSc, BSc Hons and Master of Earth Sciences all in Hydrology and Water Resources from the University of Venda. Her MSc project focused on the assessment of algae species and their cyanotoxins in small-holder aquaculture production systems: a case study of Vhembe District, South Africa. She is currently enrolled for a PhD Ecology at the University of Mpumalanga and her PhD research interest is on investigating emerging freshwater pollutants along within aquaculture ponds and associated fish species, Limpopo Province of South Africa. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Prof Franco Teixeira de Mello]. 2023 – present

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Rudzani Alice Tshifura grew up in the rural Vhembe District, Limpopo Province of South Africa. She completed a BSc, BSc Hons and Master of Earth Sciences all in Hydrology and Water Resources from the University of Venda. She is currently enrolled for a PhD Ecology at the University of Mpumalanga and her PhD research interest is on investigating emerging freshwater pollutants along within aquaculture ponds and associated fish species, Limpopo Province of South Africa. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Prof Franco T de Mello]. 2023 – present

Scientific Publications

  1. Gumbo JR and Tshifura AR (2018). The dominance of Microcystis species and microcystin congeners in a small holder fish farm, a study of Vhembe District, South Africa. Proceedings 10th International Conference on Advances in Science, Engineering, Technology and Healthcare (ASETH-18). ISBN 978-81-938365-2-1. Pages 5–8.

ASRG Lab_UMP_Mpu_2022_Chad Keates (3 of 12)

Masimini Stanford Nkosi grew up in the rural Mpumalanga. He completed a BSc in Agriculture from  University of Mpumalanga in 2020. In 2021, he enrolled for a MSc in Ecology at the University of Mpumalanga where he completed his studies Cum Laude in December 2022 working on microplastics along the Luvuvhu River system and also within freshwater Caridina nilotica. He is currently enrolled for a PhD Ecology at the same institution. Masimini current studies and previous studies were funded by UMP Vice Chancellor Bursary. His PhD research interest is on investigating emerging freshwater pollutants along the Crocodile and Luvuvhu River systems, South Africa. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Dr Nokuthula Khanyile]. 2023 – present

ASRG Lab_UMP_Mpu_2022_Chad Keates (3 of 12)

Masimini Stanford Nkosi grew up in the rural Mpumalanga. He completed a BSc in Agriculture from University of Mpumalanga in 2020. In 2021, he enrolled for a MSc in Ecology at the University of Mpumalanga where he is completed his studies cum laude in December 2022 and is currently enrolled for a PhD Ecology at the same institution. His PhD research interest is on investigating emerging freshwater pollutants along the Crocodile River system, Mpumalanga, South Africa. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Dr Nokuthula Khanyile]. 2023 – present

Scientific Publications

  1. Nkosi MS, Cuthbert RN, Wu N, Shikwambana P and Dalu T. Microplastic abundance, distribution, and diversity in water and sediments along a subtropical river system. Environmental Science and Pollution Research. DOI:10.1007/s11356-023-28842-w. 
ASRG Lab_UMP_Mpu_2022_Chad Keates (2 of 12)

Fannie Mfaniseni Masina grew up in the rural Mpumalanga. He completed a BSc in Agriculture from  University of Mpumalanga in 2020. In 2021, he enrolled for a MSc in Ecology at the University of Mpumalanga where he completed his studies in December 2022 and is currently enrolled for a PhD Ecology at the same institution. For his MSc studies he was funded by the JRS Biodiversity through the SADC-GMI grant and worked on macroinvertebrates within the Khakhea-Bray Transboundary Aquifer region. His research interest is on investigating freshwater wetland ecosystems. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Dr Farai Dondofema]. 2023 – present

ASRG Lab_UMP_Mpu_2022_Chad Keates (2 of 12)

Fannie Mfaniseni Masina grew up in the rural Mpumalanga. He completed a BSc in Agriculture from University of Mpumalanga in 2020. In 2021, he enrolled for a MSc in Ecology at the University of Mpumalanga where he is completed his studies in December 2022 and is currently enrolled for a PhD Ecology at the same institution. His research interest is on investigating freshwater wetland ecosystems. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Dr Farai Dondofema]. 2023 – present

Scientific Publications

  1. Masina FM, Wasserman RJ, Wu N, Mungenge CP, Dondofema F, Keates C, Shikwambana P and Dalu T. 2023. Macroinvertebrate diversity in relation to limnochemistry in an Austral semi–arid transboundary aquafer region pan system. Science of the Total Environment. 878(30 June):163161. 

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Buntu Fanteso is a Rhodes Scholar and PhD student at Jackson Aquatic Lab, University of Oxford. He is interested in how multiple stressors shape the composition of freshwater ecosystems and their functioning. His PhD project uses an experimental system to understand the combined effects of warming and wastewater effluent in rivers in the United Kingdom. He also conducts fieldwork in South Africa to understand how land use and climatic/latitudinal variation influence trophic interations and distribution trends of freshwater species.  [Supervisors: Prof Michelle Jackson, Dr Tatenda Dalu]. 2022 – present

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Buntu Fanteso is a Rhodes Scholar and PhD student at Jackson Aquatic Lab, University of Oxford. He is interested in how multiple stressors shape the composition of freshwater ecosystems and their functioning. His PhD project uses an experimental system to understand the combined effects of warming and wastewater effluent in rivers in the United Kingdom. He also conducts fieldwork in South Africa to understand how land use and climatic/latitudinal variation influence trophic intercations and distribution trends of freshwater species.  [Supervisors: Prof Michelle Jackson, Dr Tatenda Dalu]. 2022 – present

Scientific Publications
  1. Fanteso, B. and Yessoufou, K., 2022. Diversity and determinants of traditional water conservation technologies in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Environmental Monitoring and Assessment. 194(3):1–14.
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Khumbelo Mabadahanye is a self-motivated and hard-working individual young lady, with BSc in Microbiology and Botany from the University of Venda, BSc Hons in Botany from the University of Limpopo, and MSc in Biotechnology from the University of Johannesburg. Her MSc research focused on “Isolation and analysing chemical profiles of bioactive compounds from South Africa medicinal plants with activity against pathogenic organisms”. She is a registered Candidate Natural Scientist in the Biological Science field of practice under the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP). She worked at Vhembe Water Services as a Process Controller in Water Treatment Plant, Thulamela Municipality, Vhembe district. Khumbelo is currently a PhD student at the University of Mpumalanga and her research will focus on microplastics and wastewater treatment works. [Supervisors: Dr Mwazvita Dalu, Dr Tatenda Dalu]. 2022 – present

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Khumbelo Mabadahanye is a self-motivated and hard-working individual young lady, with BSc in Microbiology and Botany from the University of Venda, BSc Hons in Botany from the University of Limpopo, and MSc in Biotechnology from the University of Johannesburg. Her MSc research focused on “Isolation and analysing chemical profiles of bioactive compounds from South Africa medicinal plants with activity against pathogenic organisms”. She is a registered Candidate Natural Scientist in the Biological Science field of practice under the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP). She worked at Vhembe Water Services as a Process Controller in Water Treatment Plant, Thulamela Municipality, Vhembe district. Khumbelo is currently a PhD student at the University of Mpumalanga and her research will focus on microplastics and wastewater treatment works. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Dr Mwazvita Dalu]. 2022 – present

Scientific Publications
  1. Mabadahanye K, Bhembe NL and Green E. 2022. Crude extracts activity of three selected medicinal plants from the Venda region against pathogenic organisms. African Health Journal. 22(2):717-727. 
Mangana Rampheri

Mangana B. Rampheri is a PhD student in Environmental and Water Sciences at the University of the Western Cape. Her research interest are the application of GIS and Remote Sensing on Water Resources and Environmental Management. Currently, her PhD research focuses on the application of GIS and Remote Sensing in mapping Groundwater independent water ecosystems in Khakea Bray Transboundary Aquifer System. She holds BSc in Environmental and Resource Studies and an MSc in Geography and Environmental Sciences (with Cum laude) from the University of Limpopo. Her MSc research focused on “Community involvement in biodiversity conservation and management” and the study involved the use of cutting edge GIS and Satellite-based methodologies to assess tree species diversity before and after community involvement in biodiversity conservation. During her MSc, she was involved in tutoring undergraduate students  (1st to 4th year students) in GIS and Remote Sensing, Land degradation, Natural Resources and Environmental Management practical's at the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, University of Limpopo. As part of her MSc, she managed to author four journals articles, all published in ISI peer-reviewed journals. [Supervisors: Prof Timothy Dube, Dr Tatenda Dalu].​ 2021–present.

Scientific Publications
  1. Dube T, Rampheri MB and Shoko C. 2022. GIS and remote sensing analytics: assessment and monitoring. In: Dalu T and Wasserman RJ (eds). Fundamentals of Tropical Freshwater Wetlands: From Ecology to Conservation Management. Elsevier, Cambridge.
  2. Rampheri MB and Dube T. 2021. Local community involvement in nature conservation in protected areas under auspices of Community-Based Narural Resource Management (CBNRM): A state of the art review. African Journal of Ecology. 59(4):799–808.
  3. Rampheri MB, Dube T and Dhau I. 2020. Use of remote sensed data to estimate tree species diversity as an indicator of biodiversity in Blouberg Nature Reserve, South Africa. Geocarto International. 37(2):526–542.
  4. Dube T, Shoko C, Sibanda M, Baloyi MM, Molekoa, Nkuna D, Rafapa B and Rampheri MB. 2020. Spatial modelling of ground water quality across a land use and land cover gradient  in Limpopo Province, South Africa. Physics and Chemistry of the Earth. 115(Feb):102820.
  5. Fanteso, B. and Yessoufou, K., 2022. Diversity and determinants of traditional water conservation technologies in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Environmental Monitoring and Assessment. 194(3):1–14.
Chipo Mungenge

Chipo Perseverance Mungenge holds a BSc Hons in Biological Sciences and MSc in Tropical Resource Ecology from the University of Zimbabwe. She is currently a PhD student in the Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University. Her current research is on how within-system processes shape plankton diversity in groundwater dependent ecosystems in the Khakhea-Bray Dolomite Transboundary Aquifer. Chipo's research interests are limnology, plankton ecology, fish ecology, aquaculture and fisheries management. Her MSc research focused on the limnology and plankton ecology of Mazvikadei reservoir in Zimbabwe. Her past work has garnered her years of work experience in studying the limnology and ecology of various freshwater systems in Zimbabwe. She believes that research must be accessible and extend outside of academia into practical application. Chipo is currently employed by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority. [Supervisors: Prof Ryan J Wasserman, Dr Tatenda Dalu]. 2021–present.

Scientific Publications

  1. Madzivanzira TC, Mungenge CP, Dube T and Dalu T. 2023. From benthic to floating: phytoplankton dynamics in African freshwater lakes and reservoirs. In: El-Sheekh M, Elsaied H (eds) Lakes of Africa: Microbial Diversity and Sustainability. Elsevier, Cambridge.

  2. Mungenge CP, Wasserman RJ, Dondofema F, Keates C, Masina FM and Dalu T. 2023. Assessing chlorophyll–a and water quality dynamics in arid–zone temporary pan systems along a disturbance gradient. Science of the Total Environment. 873(May):162272.

  3. Madzivanzira TC, Mungenge C, Chakandinakira AT, Rugwete N and Kavhu B. 2022. Post‐filling phase ichthyofaunal community and fishery potential of Chitsuwa Reservoir, a small tropical reservoir in Zimbabwe. Lakes and Reservoirs: Research and Management. 27(1):e12394.
  4. Maquinna T, Mungenge C and Mawoyo KA. 2021. Fish diversity and composition of Tugwi Mukosi Dam, Zimbabwe's largest inland reservoir post impoundment. Aquaculture, Fish and Fisheries. 1(1):75–83.
  5. Nhiwatiwa T, Mungenge C, Mhlanga L and Dalu T. 2021. Stratification regimes and thermodynamic modelling of a subtropical African reservoir. Lakes and Reservoirs: Science, Policy and Management for Sustainable Use. 26(1):33–41.
Linton Munyai

Linton Fhatuwani Munyai joined the University of Venda as an undergraduate student in Bachelor of Environmental Sciences in 2012 and went on to complete his BSc, BSc Honours and MSc degrees with research focusing on water resources and fisheries. During his MSc, he used remote sensing to map Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) and chlorophyll-a dynamics in Nandoni reservoir and aquaculture ponds and also tried to come up remediation techniques for cyanobacterial blooms in aquaculture fish ponds within the Vhembe District, South Africa. For his PhD at the University of Venda, he will be focusing on "Biodiversity and trophic structure of ephemeral pan systems within the Makuleke Wetlands, Kruger National Park". [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Prof Ryan J Wasserman, Dr Lutendo Mugwedi].​ 2020–present.

Scientific Publications

  1. Mutoti MI, Edokpayi J, Mutileni N, Durowoju O and Munyai FL. 2023. Cyanotoxins in groundwater; occurrence, potential sources, health impacts and knowledge gap for public health. Toxicon. 226(April):107077. 
  2. Munyai LF, Dondofema F, Banda K, Mutoti MI and Gumbo JR. 2022. Satellite derived estimation of chlorophyll-a on harmful algal blooms (HABs) in selected dams of Vhembe District, Limpopo Province. International Journal of Environmental Impacts. 5(4):362-374.
  3. Mukonazwothe M, Munyai LF and Mutoti MI. 2022. Groundwater quality evaluation for domestic and irrigation purposes for the Nwanedi Agricultural Community, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Heliyon. 8(4):e09203. 
  4. Munyai LF, Dalu T, Wasserman RJ, Mugwedi L, Dondofema F, O’Brien G and Cuthbert RN. 2022. Functional responses and additive multiple predator effects of two common wetland fishes. Water. 14(5):699.
  5. ​Makherana F, Cuthbert RN, Dondofema F, Wasserman RJ, Chauke GM, Munyai LF and Dalu T. 2022. Distribution, drivers and population structure of the invasive alien snail Tarebia granifera in the Luvuvhu River, South Africa. River Research and Applications. 38(8):1362–1373.

      Cyncinatia Malapane

      Cyncinatia Malapane has a BSc, BSc Hons and MSc Environmental Sciences from the University of Venda. During her MSc she focused on mapping the distribution and abundance of common reeds Phragmites australis in the Nylsvley Wetland, South Africa using SPOT and Landsat imagery. For her PhD at the University of the Western Cape, she will be working on "Analysing the effects of streamflow rate changes in response to bush encroachment using Sentinel-2 and machine learning programmes in the Letaba River system". [Supervisors: Prof Timothy Dube, Dr Tatenda Dalu].​ 2021–present.

      Scientific Publications


          Masters Students
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          Nombuso Nothando Themba is a former Diploma, Advanced and Postgraduate Diploma in Nature Conservation at the University of Mpumalanga. She previously worked with Dr Dalu for her Advanced and Postgraduate Diploma research on macroinvertebrates biomonitoring and microplastics in fishes, respectively. For her MSc studies, she will continue working on microplastics, now moving away from rivers and focusing on standing waters. Her study area will be the Nandoni reservoir, Limpopo Province, where she will focus on water and sediment microplastic dynamics trying to understand the sink dynamics across the entire length of the reservoir system. [Supervisor: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Dr Farai Dondofema] 2023 to present


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          Nombuso Nothando Themba is a former Diploma, Advanced and Postgraduate Diploma in Nature Conservation at the University of Mpumalanga. She previously worked with Dr Dalu for her Advanced and Postgraduate Diploma research on macroinvertebrates biomonitoring and microplastics in fishes, respectively. For her MSc studies, she will continue working on microplastics, now moving away from rivers and focusing on standing waters. Her study area will be the Nandoni reservoir, Limpopo Province, where she will focus on water and sediment microplastic dynamics trying to understand the sink dynamics across the entire length of the reservoir system. [Supervisor: Dr Tatenda Dalu] 2023 to present
          BSc Hons / Postgrad. Diploma / Adv. Diploma
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          Thabelo Ricardo Munyai is currently an MSc candidate at the University of Mpumalanga and comes from the rural areas of northern Limpopo Province. Thabelo has a strong interest in climate change, mitigation, and adaptation especially on rural households. He currently has a Bachelor of Environmental Management (University of Venda), and Certificate in Environmental Law (North West University). His previous research for his Bachelor’s degree assessed the biodeterioration of brick surfaces at the University of Venda building, Limpopo, South Africa which he managed to get published in a local journal. For his MSc studies, Thabelo will aim to assess the impact of climate change on wetland ecosystem services and associated livelihood benefits of dependent households among the Sambandou villages within the Limpopo Province of South Africa. [Supervisors: Dr Mwazvita TB Dalu, Dr Tatenda Dalu]. 2022–present.


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          Thabelo Ricardo Munyai is currently an MSc candidate at the University of Mpumalanga and comes from the rural areas of northern Limpopo Province. Thabelo has a strong interest in climate change, mitigation, and adaptation especially on rural households. He currently has a Bachelor of Environmental Management (University of Venda), and Certificate in Environmental Law (North West University). His previous research for his Bachelor’s degree assessed the biodeterioration of brick surfaces at the University of Venda building, Limpopo, South Africa which he managed to get published in a local journal. For his MSc studies, Thabelo will aim to assess the impact of climate change on wetland ecosystem services and associated livelihood benefits of dependent households among the Sambandou villages within the Limpopo Province of South Africa. [Supervisors: Dr Mwazvita TB Dalu, Dr Tatenda Dalu]. 2022–present.
          ASRG Lab_UMP_Mpu_2022_Chad Keates (7 of 12) (2)

          Elsie Nomcebo Leshaba holds a BSc in Agriculture degree with a focus on Agribusiness and Geography obtained from the University of Mpumalanga. Her undergraduate research project focused on the "Determinants of market choice by fresh  produce smallholder farmers: A case of Nkomazi Local Municipality". She is currently an MSc student in the School of Biology and Environmental Sciences at University Mpumalanga where she will be working biodiversity of pans found in the southern Kruger National Park as part of the Water Research Commission project on remote sensing and biodiversity of pans. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Prof Timothy Dube]. 2022–present.

          ASRG Lab_UMP_Mpu_2022_Chad Keates (7 of 12) (2)
          Elsie Nomcebo Leshaba holds a BSc in Agriculture degree with a focus on Agribusiness and Geography obtained from the University of Mpumalanga. Her undergraduate research project focused on the "Determinants of market choice by fresh  produce smallholder farmers: A case of Nkomazi Local Municipality". She is currently an MSc student in the School of Biology and Environmental Sciences at University Mpumalanga where she will be working biodiversity of pans found in the southern Kruger National Park as part of the Water Research Commission project on remote sensing and biodiversity of pans. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Prof Timothy Dube]. 2022–present.
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          Ronald Mashamba holds a BSc and BSc Hons Environmental Sciences from the University of Venda. For his honours research he worked on the diet and length-weight relationship of Clarias gariepinus from Nylsvley Wetland and for his MSc degree at the University of Mpumalanga he will be working on plastic pollution.  [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Dr Ross N Cuthbert] . 2022–present.

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          Ronald Mashamba holds a BSc and BSc Hons Environmental Sciences from the University of Venda. For his honours research he worked on the diet and length-weight relationship of Clarias gariepinus from Nylsvley Wetland and for his MSc degree at the University of Mpumalanga he will be working on plastic pollution.  [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Dr Ross N Cuthbert]  2022–present.
          sEGOMOTSO (2)

          Segomotso Sekgweng is a University of Botswana graduate who holds a Bachelor of Sciences Degree with a major in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. She also possesses a Postgraduate Diploma in Education Certificate (PGDE) for Biology. She worked as a Full Time Laboratory Demonstrator at the University of Botswana for Biological Science courses, demonstrating practical work for undergraduate students. She is currently enrolled as student for a Master of Philosophy in Biological Sciences at the University of Botswana and her study focuses on “Developing baseline information on Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems (GDEs) and assessing the biodiversity of invertebrate and amphibian communities in the Khakhea/Bray Transboundary Aquifer, Botswana". Segomotso is a diligent, self-disciplined young woman who is motivated to explore knowledge from the ecological field. [Supervisors: Prof Maxwell Barson, Prof Hilary Masundire, Dr Tatenda Dalu]

          sEGOMOTSO (2)
          Segomotso Sekgweng is a University of Botswana graduate who holds a Bachelor of Sciences Degree with a major in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. She also possesses a Postgraduate Diploma in Education Certificate (PGDE) for Biology. She worked as a Full Time Laboratory Demonstrator at the University of Botswana for Biological Science courses, demonstrating practical work for undergraduate students. She is currently enrolled as student for a Master of Philosophy in Biological Sciences at the University of Botswana and her study focuses on “Developing baseline information on Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems (GDEs) and assessing the biodiversity of invertebrate and amphibian communities in the Khakhea/Bray Transboundary Aquifer, Botswana". Segomotso is a diligent, self-disciplined young woman who is motivated to explore knowledge from the ecological field. [Supervisors: Prof Maxwell Barson, Prof Hilary Masundire, Dr Tatenda Dalu]
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          Dzivhulusani Phadziri is a University of Venda graduate who holds a Bachelor of Environmental Sciences and Bachelor of Environmental Sciences Honours Degree. She is currently enrolled as student for a Master of Environmental Sciences at the University of Venda and her study focuses on assessing alien invasive species along the Luvuvhu River riparian zones. [Supervisors: Dr Farai Dondofema, Dr Matjula J Mokgeobo, Dr Tatenda Dalu]

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          Dzivhulusani Phadziri is a University of Venda graduate who holds a Bachelor of Environmental Sciences and Bachelor of Environmental Sciences Honours Degree. She is currently enrolled as student for a Master of Environmental Sciences at the University of Venda and her study focuses on assessing alien invasive species along the Luvuvhu River riparian zones. [Supervisors: Dr Farai Dondofema, Dr Matjula J Mokgeobo, Dr Tatenda Dalu]
          BSc Hons / Postgrad. Diploma / Adv. Diploma
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          Samkelisiwe Thobile Themba holds a BSc degree from the University of Mpumalanga and is currently enrolled for a BSc Honours in Ecology at the same institution where she actively play netball. Her current research is on the investigating microplastics dynamics in selected freshwater fishes within the Nandoni reservoir, Limpopo Province of South Africa. [Supervisor: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Mr Linton F Munyai] 2023 to present

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          Samkelisiwe Thobile Themba holds a BSc degree from the University of Mpumalanga and is currently enrolled for a BSc Honours in Ecology at the same institution where she actively play netball. Her current research is on the investigating microplastics dynamics in selected freshwater fishes within the Nandoni reservoir, Limpopo Province of South Africa. [Supervisor: Dr Tatenda Dalu] 2023 to present
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          Malleke Retang Matsimela holds a BSc Environmental Science degree from the University of Mpumalanga. Currently, she is enrolled for BSc Hons at the University of Mpumalanga furthering her studies in field of ecology. The focus of her research is on macroplastics, particularly assessing macroplastics dynamics along selected sites long the Crocodile River system within the Nelspruit area. [Supervisor: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Mr Linton F Munyai] 2023 to present

          1 (3)
          Malleke Retang Matsimela holds a BSc Environmental Science degree from the University of Mpumalanga. Currently, she is enrolled for BSc Hons at the University of Mpumalanga furthering her studies in field of ecology. The focus of her research is on macroplastics, particularly assessing macroplastics dynamics along selected sites long the Crocodile River system within the Nelspruit area. [Supervisor: Dr Tatenda Dalu] 2023 to present
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          Nozipho Madonsela is a BSc Honours Ecology student at the University of Mpumalanga. She completed her BSc Environmental Science degree. She is particularly interested in determining water quality statuses and identifying sources of pollution within freshwater ecosystems, a field that she will work on for her BSc Honours research project. [Supervisor: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Mr Linton F Munyai] 2023 to present

          WhatsApp Image 2023-08-05 at 00.28.33
          Nozipho Madonsela is a BSc Honours Ecology student at the University of Mpumalanga. She completed her BSc Environmental Science degree. She is particularly interested in determining water quality statuses and identifying sources of pollution within freshwater ecosystems, a field that she will work on for her BSc Honours research project. [Supervisor: Dr Tatenda Dalu] 2023 to present
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          Manelisi Mthombeni is a BSc Honours Geography student at the University of Mpumalanga. She completed her BSc Environmental Science degree. Manelisi is passionate about the spatio-temporal assessment of land-use patterns on river water quality and how anthropogenic activities affect river water quality. She is from Tonga View, Nkomanzi region of Mpumalanga. She is currently working on determing land use and land cover of the Inkomati River system impacts on river water quality. [Supervisor: Mr Linton F Munyai] 2023 to present

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          Manelisi Mthombeni is a BSc Honours Geography student at the University of Mpumalanga. She completed her BSc Environmental Science degree. Manelisi is passionate about the spatio-temporal assessment of land-use patterns on river water quality and how anthropogenic activities affect river water quality. She is from Tonga View, Nkomanzi region of Mpumalanga. She is currently working on determing land use and land cover of the Inkomati River system impacts on river water quality. [Supervisor: Mr Linton F Munyai] 2023 to present 
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          Busisiwe Precious Gumede holds a Diploma in Nature Conservation at University of Mpumalanga and is currently enrolled for Advance Diploma in Nature Conservation. As a young conservationist her research project will investigate habitat characteristics and abundance of aquatic macroinvertebrates in Luvuvhu River, Limpopo Province. [Supervisor: Mr Linton Munyai] 2023 to present

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          Busisiwe Precious Gumede holds a Diploma in Nature Conservation at University of Mpumalanga and is currently enrolled for Advance Diploma in Nature Conservation. As a young conservationist her research project will investigate habitat characteristics and abundance of aquatic macroinvertebrates in Luvuvhu River, Limpopo Province. [Supervisor: Mr Linton Munyai] 2023 to present

          Submitted for Examination
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          Past Postdoctoral Fellows
          1. ​​Dr Takudzwa Madzivanzira, Rhodes University PhD Graduate. 2022-2023. Four (4) publications [1 book review, 2 book chapters, 1 paper] during his tenure

          Graduated Students
          PhD
          1. Thendo Mutshekwa. 2023. Assessing the effects of macadamia orchard pesticide inputs on recipient aquatic ecosystems. PhD Environmental Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Dr Lutendo Mugwedi, Prof Ryan J Wasserman] Passed Defense, Waiting Graduation September 2023
          2. Tinotenda Mangadze. 2020. Ecological assessment using complimentary biomonitoring techniques: the case of Bloukrans River system, South Africa. PhD Marine Biology. Rhodes University, Grahamstown. [Supervisors: Prof P William Froneman, Dr Tatenda Dalu]
          MSc
          1. ​​Vincent Takalani Netshituni. 2023. Effects of wildfire on aquatic ecosystem primary productivity. MSc Environmental Sciences with Distinction, University of Venda, Thohoyandou. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Dr Ross N Cuthbert, Mr Farai Dondofema] 
          2. Masimini Stanford Nkosi. 2023. Quantifying the abundance, diversity, and trophic uptake of microplastic by freshwater shrimp Caridina nilotica in an Austral subtropical river system. MSc Ecology with Distinction. University of Mpumalanga, Nelspruit. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Dr Ross N Cuthbert] 
          3. Busiswa Pamella Zantsi. 2023. the effects of water and sediment quality variables on aquatic macroinvertebrate community structure in the Crocodile River and associated tributaries, Nelspruit (South Africa). MSc Ecology with Merit. University of Mpumalanga, Nelspruit. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Dr Ross N Cuthbert] 
          4. Tawurayi Mavimira. 2023. Understanding perceptions of school educators on teaching environmental issues. MSc Ecology with Pass. University of Mpumalanga, Nelspruit. [Supervisors: Dr Mwazvita TB Dalu, Dr Tatenda Dalu] passed, graduating May 2024
          5. Fannie Mfaniseni Masina. 2023. A baseline assessment of macroinvertebrates in temporary wetlands in the Khakhea–Bray transboundary aquafer region. MSc Ecology with Merit. University of Mpumalanga, Nelspruit. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Prof Ryan J Wasserman]
          6. Tafara Frank Bute. 2023. Microbial and extracellular polymeric substance dynamics in arid–zone temporary pan ecosystems. MSc Zoology with Merit. Rhodes University, Grahamstown (Makhanda). [Supervisors: Prof Ryan J Wasserman, Dr Tatenda Dalu] 
          7. Alugumi Yesaya Nemalili. 2023. The contribution of integrated development projects to Zandspruit River water pollution, Gauteng Province, South Africa. MSc Rural Development with Merit, University of Venda, Thohoyandou [Supervisors: Dr Jethro Zuwarimwe, Dr Tatenda Dalu] passed, graduating May
          8. Kudzai Shaun Mpakairi. 2022. Spatial characterization of vegetation diversity with satellite remote sensing in the Khakea-Bray Transboundary Aquifer. Master of Science with Distinction. University of the Western Cape, Cape Town. [Supervisors: Prof Timothy Dube, Dr Tatenda Dalu] 
          9. Fhatuwani Makherana. 2022. Assessing environmental factors structuring populations and movement dynamics of the invasive snail Tarebia granifera in a subtropical Austral reservoir. MSc Environmental Sciences with Merit, University of Venda, Thohoyandou. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Dr Ross N Cuthbert, Mr Farai Dondofema] 
          10. ​Fulufhelo Faith Muthivhi. 2022. Assessing the spatiotemporal variation of phytoplankton biomass in Nandoni reservoir in the Vhembe District (South Africa) using LANDSAT satellite imagery. MSc Environmental Sciences with Merit, University of Venda, Thohoyandou  [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Mr Farai Dondofema, Dr Matjutla Mokgoebo] 
          11. Lufuno Makhuvha. 2021. Organic matter dynamics in Nylsvley Wetland: distribution and processes. MSc Environmental Science with Merit. University of Venda, Thohoyandou. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Prof Ryan J Wasserman]
          12. Cyncinatia Malapane. 2021. Mapping the distribution and abundance of common reeds Phragmites australis in the Nylsvley Wetland, South Africa using SPOT and Landsat imagery. MSc Environmental Science with Merit. University of Venda, Thohoyandou. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Mr Farai Dondofema, Dr Eduard M Stam]
          13. Edward Mhlongo. 2021. Perceptions of the role of Lantana camara on human well-being and rural livelihoods in Vhembe Biosphere Reserve, South Africa. MSc Environmental Science with Distinction, Rhodes University, Grahamstown. [Supervisors: Dr Sheunesu Ruwanza, Dr Tatenda Dalu]
          14. Terence Magqina. 2022. Age estimation, growth rate and reproductive biology of tiger fish, Hydrocynus vittatus (Castelnau 1861) in Lake Kariba: assessing the impact of decades of fishery exploitation. MPhil Aquatic Ecology with Merit. University of Zimbabwe, Harare. [Supervisors: Prof Tamuka Nhiwatiwa, Prof Lindah Mhlanga, Dr Tatenda Dalu]
          15. Mukondi Olga Ligege. 2020. Assessing the effects of powerline servitudes as corridors for alien plant invasion: a case study of Fundudzi and Khakhu powerline corridors. MSc Environmental Science with Merit. University of Venda, Thohoyandou. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Dr Eduard M Stam]
          16. Ndivhuwo Robert Netshiongolwe. 2020. Quantifying metal contamination variation and potential uptake by Phragmites australus Adans. (Poaceae) along a subtropical river system. MSc Environmental Science with Merit. University of Venda, Thohoyandou. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Dr Lenin D Chari, Dr Samuel N Motitsoe]
          17. Onica Mukhuwana. 2020. Challenges affecting the management of Thulamela wetlands: managers’ engagement with local communities use of wetlands. MSc Environmental Science with Merit. University of Venda, Thohoyandou. [Supervisors: Dr Mwazvita TB Dalu, Dr Tatenda Dalu, Dr Florence M Murungweni]
          18. Pretty Dlamini. 2020. Assessing the influence of water level fluctuations on macroinvertebrate community assemblages in two small subtropical farm reservoirs. MSc Environmental Science with Merit. University of Venda, Thohoyandou. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Dr Matjutla J Mokgoebo]
          19. Rendani Mbedzi. 2020. The occurrence and distribution of microplastics in surficial sediments and fish in a South African reservoir. MSc Earth Sciences in Mining and Environmental Geology with Merit. University of Venda, Thohoyandou. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Dr Florence Murungweni]
          20. Rolindela Tshivhase. 2020. An assessment of metals and nutrient dynamics within soil-sediments: a case study of the Nylsvlei Ramsar Wetland (South Africa). MSc Environmental Science with Merit. University of Venda, Thohoyandou. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Prof Ryan J Wasserman, Dr Florence M Murungweni]
          21. Thendo Mutshekwa. 2020. Assessing the effects of invasive and native leaf litter decomposition dynamics in agricultural water impoundments. MSc Environmental Science with Merit. University of Venda, Thohoyandou. [Supervisors: Dr Tatenda Dalu, Prof Ryan J Wasserman, Dr Florence M Murungweni]
          22. Molline Natanah Chido Gusha. 2018. A community–wide trophic structure analysis in intertidal ecosystems on the south coast of South Africa. MSc Marine Biology with Merit. Rhodes University, Grahamstown. [Supervisors: Distinguished Prof Christopher McQuaid, Dr Tatenda Dalu]
          23. Simphiwe Gininda. 2017. Effect of pollution on community assemblages of a small river system: A case of Bloukrans River, South Africa. MSc Marine Biology with Distinction. Rhodes University, Grahamstown. [Supervisors: Prof Nicole B Richoux, Dr Tatenda Dalu]
          BSc Hons / Postgrad. Diploma / Adv. Diploma

          Glencia Matimu Chauke, Ronald Mashamba, Katlego William Masasane, Thabiso Banda, Mokgale Merchatte Maenetje, Khumbelo Mulondo, Mathapelo Jaqualine Methi, Phumudzo Ragimana, Rabelani Seshonge, Rotondwa Matshidze, Rotondwa Sithagu, Tshedza Thriddah Murudi, Salphina Ntombikayise Sathekge, Bernad Malesa, Rivoningo Chauke, Mulweli Makatu, Muhali Hulisani, Kholofelo Christina Makhubupetsi, Bonginkosi Ngobeni, Nelisiwe Ngomane, Nombuso Nothando Themba, Dion Nikita Mebu.