# South African Institute of Aquatic Biodiversity

> Formerly the J.L.B. Smith Institute of Ichthyology

**Wikidata**: [Q7565708](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q7565708)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_African_Institute_for_Aquatic_Biodiversity)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/south-african-institute-of-aquatic-biodiversity

## Summary
The South African Institute of Aquatic Biodiversity is a research institute focused on aquatic biodiversity, formerly known as the J.L.B. Smith Institute of Ichthyology, based in Makhanda, South Africa.

## Key Facts
- Formerly known as the J.L.B. Smith Institute of Ichthyology
- Located in Makhanda, South Africa
- Operates as a research institute focused on aquatic biodiversity
- Website: https://www.saiab.ac.za
- Member of the Biodiversity Heritage Library
- Coordinates: -33.31055556, 26.51972222
- Has multiple identifiers including ISNI (000000040634279X and 0000000122225516), ROR (00bfgxv06), and VIAF (141059064)
- Twitter handle: NRF_SAIAB

### Q: What is the South African Institute of Aquatic Biodiversity?
A: It's a research institute focused on aquatic biodiversity, formerly known as the J.L.B. Smith Institute of Ichthyology, based in Makhanda, South Africa.

### Q: Where is the institute located?
A: It is located in Makhanda, South Africa, with coordinates approximately -33.31°S, 26.52°E.

### Q: What is its main focus?
A: The institute focuses on aquatic biodiversity research, including ichthyology (study of fish).

### Q: Is it affiliated with any other organizations?
A: Yes, it is a member of the Biodiversity Heritage Library.

## Why It Matters
The South African Institute of Aquatic Biodiversity plays a crucial role in understanding and conserving South Africa's rich aquatic ecosystems. As a research institute focused on aquatic biodiversity, it addresses the need for scientific knowledge about freshwater and marine life in the region. The institute's work contributes to conservation efforts, informs policy decisions, and advances scientific understanding of aquatic ecosystems. By studying fish and other aquatic organisms, the institute helps protect endangered species and maintain ecological balance in South African water bodies.

## Notable For
- It was formerly known as the J.L.B. Smith Institute of Ichthyology, indicating a long-standing history in the field of ichthyology
- It has multiple international identifiers including ISNI, ROR, and VIAF, demonstrating its recognition in academic and research communities
- It's a member of the Biodiversity Heritage Library, indicating collaboration with global biodiversity research networks
- It operates under the website https://www.saiab.ac.za and has a Twitter presence (@NRF_SAIAB)

## Body
### History and Background
The South African Institute of Aquatic Biodiversity was formerly known as the J.L.B. Smith Institute of Ichthyology. The institute has multiple international identifiers including ISNI (000000040634279X and 0000000122225516), ROR (00bfgxv06), and VIAF (141059064). It has been recognized by various academic databases and research networks.

### Location and Infrastructure
The institute is located in Makhanda, South Africa, with coordinates approximately -33.31°S, 26.52°E. It operates from this location and has a physical presence in the region.

### Research Focus
The institute's primary focus is on aquatic biodiversity, particularly ichthyology (the study of fish). This includes research on freshwater and marine fish species in South Africa and the broader region.

### Affiliations and Networks
The institute is a member of the Biodiversity Heritage Library, indicating its participation in global biodiversity research networks. It also has connections to other research organizations and academic institutions.

### Digital Presence
The institute maintains an official website at https://www.saiab.ac.za and has a Twitter account (@NRF_SAIAB) for communication and outreach.

## References

1. Aligned ISNI and Ringgold identifiers for institutions
2. [Source](https://about.biodiversitylibrary.org/about/bhl-consortium/)
3. Czech National Authority Database
4. [Global Biodiversity Information Facility](https://www.gbif.org/publisher/cecc196e-f262-4986-a88a-6adf035dca0e)
5. GRID Release 2020-06-29
6. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File
7. [OpenAlex](https://docs.openalex.org/download-snapshot/snapshot-data-format)